England has taken command of the first Ashes Test by securing crucial wickets. Stuart Broad, chosen over Mark Wood for his vast experience and the ability to handle high-pressure scenarios, secured two consecutive wickets, cementing the game’s direction during the first hour of the second day. He first targeted his old nemesis, David Warner, who tried to punch the ball into the gap at cover, but instead dragged it onto his stumps. After that, he took the outside edge of the world’s top-ranked batsman, Marnus Labuschagne, with a well-placed outswinger.
Ben Stokes, who had been suffering from a persistent left knee problem, instigated the pivotal wicket of Steve Smith. Khawaja and Smith had been building a partnership until Stokes outsmarted Smith with a well-directed ball that touched just above his knee-roll. The delivery was so well directed that it left Smith with no option but to walk back to the pavilion. Stokes threw himself into the air in celebration, and the jubilant Birmingham crowd erupted after the umpire upheld the appeal raised by Stokes.
Both sides had their moments throughout the day. Playing aggressively, England surprised Australia with an early declaration at 393 for eight and aimed to take wickets quickly. Just after 30 minutes of the game, the Australian top order started to collapse, and England seized the opportunity. However, Usman Khawaja remained unbeaten on 40 as Australia ended the day with their score at 154 for 6.
Stokes also broke or circumvented previously established protocols on the day. In one instance, instead of opting for a regular bowler, he chose Harry Brook, who threw a single over, representing one of the various risks he took that paid off.
England has built an impressive position on the first Ashes Test’s second day, but with Australia’s firepower, it’s too soon to declare a winner one way or the other.
