Joe Root’s outstanding century, his first against Australia since 2015, propelled England to a commanding total of 393/8 before declaring on the first day of the opening Ashes Test. However, the declaration didn’t yield the desired outcome as the Australian team held their ground, finishing the day at 14/0.
Despite the crowd’s anticipation for a thrilling contest, David Warner and Usman Khawaja appeared comfortable, setting the stage for an exciting second day. England’s decision to declare after 78 overs in their first innings was a bold move, marking the earliest declaration in an Ashes series. Nonetheless, it was in line with the team’s style of play, as this marked the fifth first innings declaration from England in their last 14 Tests.
The highlight of the eventful opening day was undoubtedly Joe Root’s exceptional performance. While England’s aggressive batsmen drew attention with their attacking mindset, Root proved that his more cautious approach can be just as effective. Australia’s Josh Hazlewood acknowledged the impending declaration, stating, “Once Joe had reached his century, there were signs that the declaration was coming. That’s just the way they are playing cricket at the moment. We are still pretty happy.”
The doubts surrounding England’s ability to maintain their high-scoring momentum, which they had achieved under Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, were quickly dispelled. Zak Crawley’s boundary off the first ball of the innings contrasted starkly with the previous Ashes series, where Mitchell Starc clean-bowled England opener Rory Burns, leading to Australia’s dominant 4-0 victory.
Root joined Crawley at the crease after the dismissals of Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope. Crawley achieved his fifty off just 56 balls but fell victim to the final delivery before lunch. Harry Brook, a key proponent of England’s aggressive approach, had a swift innings of 32 off 37 balls before a blocked shot deflected back onto the stumps in an unusual manner.
Ben Stokes’ dismissal was self-inflicted, as Hazlewood found the captain’s edge with only one run on the scoreboard. Root, who was given out just before tea but saved by the Decision Review System, continued to accumulate runs while his teammates came and went.
Root’s innings exhibited a blend of controlled aggression, reminiscent of McCullum’s approach, with four of England’s five sixes in the innings coming from his bat. A single flick off his legs allowed Root to secure his 30th international century. Afterward, he unleashed his full range of shots, including two sixes in one over, convincing Stokes to declare earlier than expected.
Australia briefly posed a threat to England’s dominance on the first day, but a partnership of 121 runs between Root and Jonny Bairstow revived the innings. Root’s measured approach helped him reach his century, while Bairstow played in a characteristic “Bazball” style, smashing boundaries at a run-a-ball pace before falling to Lyon. Their partnership, formed when England were struggling at 176/5, shifted the momentum in England’s favor.
Bairstow expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “Overall, it’s been a good day. The intent the guys showed… Zak’s first shot of the day was in stark contrast to last time. The crowd has been enthusiastic, and we thoroughly enjoyed it.” Reflecting on England’s attacking style of play over the past year, Bairstow emphasized the trust and unity within the team.
Regarding the early declaration and the bowlers’ strategy on a pitch favoring the batsmen, Bairstow advised patience and a consistent length. He acknowledged the declaration as a bold but wise decision. Bairstow, who returned to the field after a long injury lay-off, expressed his joy at being back in action and highlighted his commitment to giving his best.
Ultimately, the first day of the Ashes Test showcased England’s impressive batting display, led by Joe Root’s exceptional century, while Australia held their ground and prepared for a challenging second day.