Can England Salvage a Win at Edgbaston Despite Slow Track?

England and Australia resume the first Ashes Test match at Edgbaston with David Warner and Usman Khawaja scoring 0-14. Meanwhile, Ben Stokes, England’s Captain, made a bold declaration on day one, calling a halt at 393-8, with Joe Root unbeaten on 118. While this move may have been shocking to traditionalists, it was expected by teammate Jonny Bairstow. Stokes’ decision was to lose the promise of extra runs in the hope of snaring an Australian wicket in the four overs remaining before Friday’s close. Australia survived the tricky four-over examination from England’s fast bowlers, but on a flat wicket, runs are there to be taken. Despite losing the toss on a good batting pitch, Australia paceman Josh Hazlewood marked his return to Test cricket with 2-61 in 15 overs. He insisted that the tourists were not taken aback by Stokes’ declaration. Hazlewood also pointed out that the wicket was very slow, with no sideways movement, and not much swinging, and so 390 (for England) and ‘none-for’ (Australia) kept the match at an even keel.