Perth witnessed a sensational start to the 2025 Ashes series between England and Australia, as bowlers dominated both sides on the opening day of the first Test.
A total of 19 wickets fell, with England’s top-order struggling against Mitchell Starc’s fiery pace and Australia suffering a late collapse under the brilliance of Ben Stokes.
The dramatic day set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested series, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
After winning the toss, England elected to bat first but failed to handle the Australian attack, being bowled out for 172 runs. Harry Brook was the top scorer with 52 runs, while Ollie Pope contributed 46, and Jamie Smith added 33.
Australia’s Mitchell Starc delivered a career-best performance, taking 7 wickets for 58 runs, while Brandon Doggett claimed 2 wickets to support the effort.
Chasing 173 to win, Australia also faced difficulties and ended the day at 123 for 9, still 49 runs behind England. Alex Carey scored 26, Cameron Green made 24, and Travis Head added 21 runs.
England’s all-rounder Ben Stokes led the bowling for his side with 5 wickets for 23 runs, backed by Jofra Archer and Briden Carr, who took two wickets each.
The first day’s tally of 19 wickets marks a rare occurrence in Ashes history the first time in 116 years that so many wickets fell on the opening day of a Test. The last instance was at Old Trafford in 1909, when 20 wickets fell on day one.
With such a thrilling start, the Perth Test is set for an intense battle as both teams fight for early advantage in the series.
