Joe Root’s maiden Test century on Australian soil and a late cameo from England’s Jofra Archer have left the second Ashes Test finely poised, despite a scintillating performance from Australian speedster Mitchell Starc at the Gabba. The visitors closed day one at 9-325, thanks to an unbeaten 61-run partnership between Root and Archer, who ended the day not out on 135 and 32, respectively.
England, having won the toss and elected to bat, found themselves in early trouble at 2-5. This was courtesy of a fiery opening spell from Starc, who finished with figures of 6-71 from 19 overs. Opener Zak Crawley contributed a brisk half-century, while captain Ben Stokes was run out in the evening session, thanks to a remarkable piece of fielding by reserve wicketkeeper Josh Inglis.
Stokes Resists ‘Gutsy’ Declaration
On the eve of the Gabba Test, England captain Ben Stokes was questioned about the possibility of a bold declaration to exploit Australia’s top order under the lights. Despite the opportunity presenting itself, Stokes opted against it, allowing Root and Archer to build a formidable lead.
Former Australian opener David Warner critiqued this decision on Fox Cricket, stating,
“Night time is the best time to bowl. If you want to make inroads with a new ball, the best time to do that is at night time.”
Stokes, however, might have been cautious due to past experiences, such as the tense two-wicket defeat at Edgbaston in 2023 following a day-one declaration. The decision to bat on was supported by former England bowler Isa Guha, who emphasized the importance of first-innings runs on a potentially deteriorating pitch.
Lyon Omission Leaves Aussies Vulnerable
The decision to drop Nathan Lyon from the Test squad for the first time in 14 years on home soil has sparked significant debate. Lyon, who has a commendable record at the Gabba, expressed his frustration, describing himself as “filthy” with the decision.
Former Australian spinner Kerry O’Keeffe and other pundits have voiced their surprise at the omission, especially given Lyon’s ability to extract bounce, which is considered his greatest asset. O’Keeffe remarked,
“I can’t agree with the non-selection of a spinner on a dry pitch.”
Australia’s chairman of selectors, George Bailey, defended the decision, citing strategic considerations. However, the absence of Lyon’s variety was felt as Root and Archer capitalized on the lack of a spin option late in the day.
Root Breaks 12-Year Aussie Hoodoo
Joe Root’s century at the Gabba marks a significant milestone in his career, ending a 12-year wait for a Test hundred in Australia. Walking to the crease early, Root steadied England’s innings after a collapse, showcasing resilience and patience against a formidable Australian attack.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan praised Root’s innings, highlighting his ability to anchor the innings and manage the game’s tempo. Guha added,
“Root is the one in that order to manage the tempo. He’s just setting up this game.”
Despite this personal triumph, Root remains focused on breaking another drought—leading England to a Test victory in Australia, a feat he has yet to achieve in his career.
Starc’s Stellar Performance Elevates His Status
Mitchell Starc’s performance at the Gabba has further cemented his status as one of the game’s greats. With 16 wickets in the series so far, Starc has surpassed Wasim Akram as the leading wicket-taker among left-arm fast bowlers in Tests.
Starc’s ability to consistently take wickets in the first over of a Test innings has been a key factor in his success. His aggressive approach, targeting the stumps, has resulted in a significant proportion of his wickets being bowled, a testament to his skill and strategy.
Australian great Brett Lee commended Starc’s improvement and durability, attributing it to his relaxed and rhythmic run-up, which allows him to bowl longer spells effectively. Lee noted,
“His approach just looks effortless now. His brother’s an Olympic high-jumper. He’s got the genes in the family.”
As the second Test continues, all eyes will be on Starc and the Australian bowlers to see if they can capitalize on their early successes and turn the match in their favor.
