Rain Disrupts Day 1 of Final Ashes Test as England Sets Strong Foundation

Day 1 Overview

Only 45 overs were bowled on the first day of the fifth and final Ashes Test between England and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, as rain and poor light halted play during the third session.

England's Strong Position

At the end of Day 1, England's score stood at 211/3 in 45 overs, with Joe Root remaining not out at 72 runs off 103 balls, including eight fours, and Harry Brook also unbeaten at 78 runs from 92 balls, featuring six fours and one six. The duo formed a vital partnership of 154 runs for the fourth wicket, helping England maintain a solid position after a wicketless second session.

Session Breakdown

The third session was initially delayed due to bad light, and although the rain subsided, the umpires decided to end play for the day due to insufficient light conditions.

First Session Highlights

In the first session, Root and Brook contributed to a 57-run partnership for the fourth wicket, leading England to a score of 114/3 at Lunch after 24 overs. Brook scored 23 runs off 31 balls, while Root added 31 runs off 37 deliveries.

Australia's Early Wickets

Australia's bowlers made early breakthroughs, with openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett putting together a 35-run partnership. Crawley scored 16 runs off 29 balls, and Duckett made 27 runs off 24 balls. Jacob Bethell was dismissed for 10 runs off 23 balls. Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Michael Neser each claimed a wicket in the first session.

England's Dominance in the Second Session

The second session saw England take control, reaching 155/3 after 33 overs. Root achieved his fifty in 65 balls, while Brook followed suit shortly after. The visitors surpassed the 200-run mark in the 42nd over and celebrated a 150-run partnership for the fourth wicket before rain and bad light ended the day's play.

Match Summary

Brief Scores: England: 211/3 (Joe Root 72*, Harry Brook 78*, Michael Neser 1/36) vs Australia.