Starc Strikes Early as England Stumble in Perth Ashes Opener
The Ashes 2025 has kicked off with a dramatic start in Perth, and England’s first innings is already under serious pressure. England won the toss and opted to bat, but it quickly became clear that the Australian pace attack, led by Mitchell Starc, was not going to make things easy. Within the first nine overs, England had lost three crucial wickets for just 39 runs—a start that will certainly leave the team and their supporters on edge.
Zak Crawley was dismissed for a duck in the very first over, caught at first slip off Starc’s bowling. Ben Duckett followed soon after, trapped lbw for 21, and then England captain Joe Root fell for another duck, caught off a delivery from Starc. The rapid succession of early dismissals demonstrated just how threatening Starc was, as every ball seemed to carry menace and precision. By the 14th over, England had managed to reach 67 for 3, with Ollie Pope and Harry Brook showing some resistance at the crease.
Starc’s opening spell was described as exceptional. Cricket analysts noted that it was the best start against England since Terry Alderman’s famous 1981 performance, with Starc’s figures standing at 3-17 at the time. His accuracy and ability to extract movement off the pitch meant that England’s top order never truly settled. Meanwhile, debutant Brendan Doggett also made an impression in his first Test over, impressing with his pace and length, though without claiming a wicket yet. Scott Boland was introduced from the other end, maintaining pressure with consistent deliveries.
Also Read:Despite the early collapse, there were glimpses of resilience. Ollie Pope looked steady, finding gaps for singles and boundaries, while Harry Brook, after a shaky start, managed to get off the mark with a clever three. England’s batters are now tasked with rebuilding the innings under mounting pressure, as Australia look to extend their dominance.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan and ex-Australian bowler Glenn McGrath both highlighted Starc’s exceptional opening spell, emphasizing that credit must go to Australia’s bowlers for putting England on the back foot so quickly. Analysts also pointed out that England’s batters would need to adapt quickly to the conditions if they hope to avoid a total collapse.
Australia, who have held the Ashes since 2018, will be buoyed by this commanding start. The pitch at Optus Stadium has been described as a good cricket wicket, offering pace and carry, which suits the Australian attack perfectly. England, on the other hand, will be hoping that their middle order, led by Stokes, can stabilize the innings and prevent Australia from seizing a decisive early advantage in this crucial series.
As the day unfolds, all eyes will remain on England’s recovery and Australia’s relentless bowling. This opening day in Perth has already set the tone for what promises to be a gripping Ashes series, with early momentum firmly in Australia’s favor.
England are 67 for 3 after 14.3 overs, and the story of this first Test is already being written in Mitchell Starc’s electrifying spell.
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