In the first Test of the LV= Insurance Ashes at Edgbaston, Stuart Broad’s crucial wickets on the fourth day turned the tide in England’s favor, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
England declared their first innings at 393-8, with captain Joe Root unbeaten on 118, despite Nathan Lyon’s 4-149. In response, Australia managed 386 runs, with Usman Khawaja scoring a brilliant 141. Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson took three wickets each to keep Australia in check.
In their second innings, England posted a target of 281 runs, and Australia started strongly with an opening partnership of 61 between David Warner and Usman Khawaja. However, Ollie Robinson dismissed Warner, and then Stuart Broad wreaked havoc by removing Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith. Australia ended the day at 107-3, with Khawaja still at the crease on 34, and Scott Boland surviving 19 balls as the nightwatchman.
Earlier in the day, Joe Root’s audacious reverse-scoop attempt off Pat Cummins set the tone. Despite Root’s contribution of 46, England struggled to find substantial partnerships, with Harry Brook and captain Ben Stokes both falling in their 40s. Cummins and Lyon picked up four wickets each to restrict England.
Notably, Khawaja had a stroke of luck when he edged the ball between Root and wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow when he was on only five, adding to England’s missed opportunities in the match.
The ongoing Test match has already delivered on its pre-match expectations, featuring intense player banter, enthusiastic home crowd support, and high-quality cricket. Both teams have had their moments, and the outcome remains uncertain. The pitch has offered little assistance to the bowlers, and the weather forecast introduces another variable to the already promised drama.
Stuart Broad’s impactful performance on day four brought England back into the contest. Australia, on the other hand, must find a way to chase down 174 runs with only seven wickets remaining if they want to secure a 1-0 lead in the series.
Quotes from Stuart Broad and David Warner reflect the tense situation and the anticipation surrounding the final day of this gripping Ashes Test at Edgbaston.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ashes Test
What is the Ashes Test?
The Ashes Test refers to the Test cricket series played between England and Australia. It is a highly anticipated and prestigious cricket competition held biennially.
What happened in the first Ashes Test in 2023?
In the first Ashes Test of 2023 at Edgbaston, England declared their first innings at 393-8, with Joe Root scoring an unbeaten 118. Australia responded with 386 runs, led by Usman Khawaja’s impressive 141. Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson took crucial wickets for England. In the second innings, Stuart Broad’s two late wickets shifted the momentum towards England, leaving Australia at 107-3, chasing a target of 281 runs.
Who were the key players in the first Ashes Test?
Joe Root played a vital role for England, scoring 118 runs in the first innings. Stuart Broad made a significant impact with his bowling, taking crucial wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith. Usman Khawaja starred for Australia with a brilliant century in the first innings.
What is the current state of the match?
At the end of the fourth day, England requires seven more wickets to win, while Australia needs to score 174 runs for a 1-0 lead in the series. The match is poised for an exciting and closely contested finish.
When was the last time Australia chased a similar target to win an Ashes Test?
The last time Australia successfully chased a similar target to win an Ashes Test was in 1948. This makes the current situation a challenging task for Australia’s batting lineup.
Has the match lived up to the expectations of an Ashes Test?
Yes, the match has been highly captivating and has lived up to the expectations of an Ashes Test. It has featured intense competition, verbal exchanges between players, enthusiastic crowd support, and high-quality cricket.
What are the key factors influencing the match outcome?
More about Ashes Test
- The Ashes – Official Website
- Cricinfo – Ashes Test series
- BBC Sport – Cricket
- Edgbaston Stadium
- Test cricket – Wikipedia
5 comments
1948 – dat’s how long ago aus chasd similar target. if they pull dis off, it’ll be 1 for da history books. can’t wait 4 day 5! #Ashes
Root’s 118* & Khawaja’s 141 were epic! england had a few missd chances tho. brod’s late wickets made d differens. dis is wat d ashes is all abt!
da ashes test is pure excitement! edge-of-d-seat stuff. rain bettr stay away. fingers crossd 4 anothr historic match like 2005 & 1981!
woww! england vs australia in d ashes test! gotta luv d rivalri. broad’s wickets rly swing d game. can’t wait 4 d thrilling finish!! #Ashes2023
edgbaston has seen sum epic ashes battles! d atmosphere is electrifyng. fans prayin 4 no rain but clouds 4 trubl. bring on d drama!