England has taken control of the First Ashes Test on day two with Stuart Broad and Ben Stokes taking crucial wickets against Australia. Broad had Edgbaston in raptures with his successful dismissal of David Warner for just nine runs off a wide delivery, marking his 15th time dismissing the opener in Tests and 7th in just ten innings during the last Ashes played in England four years ago. Marnus Labuschagne, the world’s No.1 ranked Test batter, was the next to fall with Jonny Bairstow making a fine caught-behind first-ball catch. Stokes, who was questionable to bowl, then took down Steve Smith for 16 by pinning him lbw shortly before the end of the interval. By the end of the first half of the match, Australia reached 78 for three, a total of 315 runs behind England.
England surprised the tourists with an early declaration on the first evening, allowing Ben Stokes to call his side in at 393 for eight in the hope of making an early breakthrough. Usman Khawaja and Warner were able to survive for just four overs to resume on Saturday morning at 14 without loss, but the pressure from England’s bowlers was too great, leading to Warner’s early dismissal.
Despite the early wickets, Stokes had to continuously tinker with his field and bowling options, leading to the use of seven different bowlers before the lunch break. His usage of medium pace from Harry Brook for an over at first-change was a remarkable move, with Stokes eventually taking the ball himself. The England captain has only been able to bowl for two overs in the past year because of a long-standing knee issue. However, his successful delivery that dismissed Smith in just his second over was one to remember.
Overall, England’s early domination resulted in a successful start to day two of the First Ashes Test. While there is still much to be played, England’s early dismissal of some of Australia’s top players promises to make for an exciting match. The Birmingham crowds were certainly kept engaged with Broad rousing them for more during his successful deliveries.
