Ashes 2023, 3rd Test: Aussies put England in the Corner on Day 1

The third test of Ashes 2023 began yesterday with full swing, as the England bowlers started strong by tormenting Aussie batters by running through their seasoned top order. Having lost the first two tests to Australia, they dismissed David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja early in the first innings and gained a strong advantage. However, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh showed impressive resilience by scoring a century in the middle order and was supported well by Travis Head. Their efforts put Australia in a fighting position as the side finished on 263.
The Aussie pacers made the most of this situation and took the attack to the English batsmen. Skipper Pat Cummins struck first by dismissing England opener Ben Duckett on just 2 runs off six deliveries. Having walked on the crease under tremendous pressure, youngster Harry Brook also fell prey to Cummins, who nicked his edge with a deceptive delivery which was safely caught by Steve Smith. Opener Zak Crawley, however, stood his ground and tried to push the scoreboard, but Marsh came to Australia’s rescue again and got Crawley out just when he was getting set. While England is three wickets down on just 68 runs, their ace batsman Joe Root is holding down the fort with Johnny Bairstow. England also has reliable batsmen like skipper Ben Stokes and all-rounder Moeen Ali down the order as well.
However, if Australia can manage to get them all out well before England crosses 200 runs, Australia has a strong chance of winning this test early and thereby winning Ashes 2023 as well.

Image source: AP