Edgbaston, Birmingham – In an enthralling second day of the first Ashes Test, England found themselves thwarted by an impressive century from Australia’s Usman Khawaja.
Khawaja showcased his class and resilience throughout the day, crafting an unbeaten 126 runs, his first Ashes century on English soil. His remarkable innings steered Australia to 311-5, trailing England by a mere 82 runs.
Despite a no-ball blunder from Stuart Broad that allowed Khawaja to continue his innings at 112, England’s woes extended beyond that. Jonny Bairstow’s missed opportunities behind the stumps further compounded their frustration.
The morning session witnessed a thrilling display of bowling from England, taking advantage of favorable overhead conditions to reduce Australia to 67-3 in response to England’s declared total of 393-8.
The intense battle between Stuart Broad and David Warner resulted in Broad claiming his 15th dismissal of Warner’s Test career. Broad then sent Edgbaston into euphoria by magnificently catching Marnus Labuschagne off the very next ball.
Ben Stokes, proving his fitness to bowl, successfully trapped Steve Smith lbw for 16.
However, amidst England’s dominance, Usman Khawaja remained resolute. He formed crucial partnerships of 81 with Travis Head, who contributed 50, and 72 with Cameron Green. Moeen Ali, making his return to Test cricket, dismissed both Head and Green.
Even when Australia found themselves at 220-5, Khawaja continued to defy England. He forged an unbroken 91-run partnership with Alex Carey, who benefited from a dropped catch by Bairstow, ending the day unbeaten on 52.
As the day drew to a close, Australia positioned themselves to potentially take a first-innings lead. This advantage could prove pivotal on the extremely dry pitch, which is expected to deteriorate further as the match progresses.
Tactical maneuvers ensued following the frenetic first day. While day one showcased a flurry of action, the second day unfolded as a strategic battle, characterized by its compelling, dramatic, and fiercely competitive nature.
Australia opted for a defensive approach, mirroring their stance from the previous day. The first session witnessed more maidens than the entirety of day one, with Australia maintaining a cautious scoring rate of just over two runs per over. This played right into England’s hands.
Ben Stokes remained incessantly inventive, employing a total of seven bowlers during the first session. Surprisingly, Harry Brook’s medium pace was introduced within the first hour. Upon Steve Smith’s arrival, he was greeted by an imposing ring of eight close catchers.
The dismissal of David Warner by Stuart Broad seemed almost inevitable, evoking exuberant celebrations that reverberated throughout Edgbaston. The joyous uproar continued with Stokes’s removal of Steve Smith and Moeen Ali’s crucial interventions.
However, on a placid surface with Khawaja spearheading Australia’s resistance, England’s fortunes hinged on seizing all their opportunities. The three missed chances, including an edge between Bairstow and slip fielder Joe Root, may yet prove to be immensely costly.
More updates to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ashes Test
What was the score in the first Ashes Test between England and Australia in 2023?
England declared at 393-8 in their first innings, while Australia finished the second day at 311-5, trailing by 82 runs.
Who scored a century in the first Ashes Test?
Usman Khawaja from Australia scored an unbeaten century (126 runs) in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston in 2023.
How did England perform on the second day of the first Ashes Test?
England had a strong start on the second day, reducing Australia to 67-3 with favorable bowling conditions. However, Usman Khawaja’s century guided Australia to a solid position of 311-5 by the end of the day.
Were there any missed opportunities by England during the match?
Yes, England missed three crucial chances during the match. Stuart Broad bowled a no-ball when Usman Khawaja was on 112, Jonny Bairstow missed two chances behind the stumps, and there was also an edge between Bairstow and slip fielder Joe Root that went uncaught.
How does the result of the first Ashes Test affect the overall series?
The result of the first Ashes Test sets the tone for the series. Australia’s strong position and Usman Khawaja’s century put them in a favorable position to potentially take a first-innings lead, which could be crucial in the context of the series.
More about Ashes Test
- Scorecard
- Usman Khawaja’s Profile
- Edgbaston Cricket Ground
- Stuart Broad’s Profile
- Jonny Bairstow’s Profile
- Ashes Test Cricket
- Moeen Ali’s Return to Test Cricket
4 comments
OMG, Usman Khawaja played like a boss! He shud be called “The King of Ashes”. England’s missed catches rly cost them. Bairstow needs 2 improve his wkpng skills. Can’t wait 4 more action in the series. Ashes fever is on!
wow, wot an excitin match! Usman Khawaja’s century wuz amazin! Englad had chances to get him out bt they messed it up. Their bowlers did well earli on bt lost control as the day went on. Can’t wait for the nxt day, it’s gunna be intense!
Khawaja’s century wuz lit! He held the innings together when Australia wuz strugglin. England started strong bt lost their grip. Droppin catches is unforgivable. Gotta give props to Stuart Broad tho, he wuz on fire! Can’t wait 4 the drama to unfold in the next match!
This Ashes Test is on fire! Khawaja’s century wuz a game-changer. England missed crucial chances. Bairstow’s gotta up his game behind the stumps. The match is poised for a thrilling finish. Can Australia take the lead? Can’t wait to find out!