The 1st day Australia vs England score delivered one of the most dramatic openings in Ashes history as both teams collapsed under pressure, resulting in 19 wickets falling on a lively Perth pitch. England were bowled out for 172, while Australia stumbled to 123/9 by stumps, setting the stage for an unpredictable Test match that could turn either way.
England’s innings: Early promise fades in quick collapse
England came into the Ashes opener with an aggressive strategy and confidence in their batting depth. The innings began positively, with the top order finding early boundaries and playing with intent. However, the initial control soon shifted as Australia’s pace attack found movement, bounce, and rhythm.
Harry Brook leads the way
Harry Brook stood out with a composed 52, playing with balance and aggression. He appeared comfortable against Australia’s quicks, even when others struggled. His innings included crisp drives and confident pulls, but once he fell, England’s resistance weakened rapidly.
Starc’s sensational spell
Mitchell Starc delivered one of the most electrifying spells of his Test career, finishing with 7 for 58. His pace, late swing, and accuracy made him nearly unplayable. England’s middle and lower order had no answers as Starc dismantled the lineup with a mix of yorkers and short-pitched deliveries.
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Key moments from England’s collapse
Jamie Smith tried to rebuild but was dismissed at 33.
Ollie Pope added 46, offering resistance before edging behind.
The lower order fell for minimal runs, ending England’s innings prematurely at 172 in just 32.5 overs.
Australia’s response: A batting shock of its own
After a strong bowling performance, Australia looked poised to take command. But the story dramatically reversed in the evening session.
Stokes ignites England’s comeback
Ben Stokes produced a fiery spell that ripped through Australia’s middle and lower order. His figures of 5 for 23 in six overs stunned the home crowd and revived England’s hopes.
Khawaja is unable to open due to rule technicality
A rare and unexpected moment unfolded when veteran opener Usman Khawaja was not allowed to open the innings because he had not spent the required time on the field during England’s innings.
The reshuffle that didn’t work
Debutant Jake Weatherald was sent to open.
Australia lost wickets rapidly as England exploited the pitch’s seam movement and extra bounce.
Steve Smith endured a tough time, falling behind early.
The middle order failed to settle against the relentless pressure.
By stumps, Australia were 123/9, trailing England by 49 runs despite their strong start earlier in the day.
Pitch and conditions: A challenging surface from ball one
The Perth pitch offered consistent pace and bounce, making run-scoring difficult. Bowlers from both sides benefited from seam movement and unpredictable lift off the surface. With overcast conditions adding swing, batters had little margin for error.
Why so many wickets on Day 1?
Extra bounce, forced edges, and misjudged shots
Swing from both sides troubled the top-order batters
Aggressive, attacking fields intensified pressure
Batters struggled to adapt to the fast-paced conditions
This marks one of the rare Ashes days where 19 wickets fell on the opening day — a feat not seen in more than a century.
What to expect on Day 2
With Australia down to their last wicket, their tail will aim to cut down the deficit as much as possible. England, on the other hand, will look to secure a quick finish and bat with more discipline in the second innings.
Key points heading into Day 2
Australia needs a small but crucial last-wicket partnership.
England’s bowlers will aim to capitalize on early morning seam movement.
The match is likely to move quickly — possibly ending inside four days.
The Test is finely poised, and the 1st day Australia vs England score reflects a contest dominated by bowlers on a challenging surface.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and live match updates. For full match details, scorecards, and further updates, please refer to the official sources mentioned below.
Source
The Guardian – Australia vs England, 1st Test Day 1
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