Starc’s Fast Start Puts England in Trouble in Ashes Opener

Australia began their Ashes defense with a strong and fiery performance on Friday, using pure pace to knock England off balance in the first session in Perth. By lunchtime on day one, England was already in a tough spot at 105-4, mostly because of an outstanding spell from Mitchell Starc.

Even without injured stars Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, Australia didn’t miss a beat. Starc took charge right away and delivered a classic performance, finishing the morning with 3-24. His early burst didn’t just hurt England—it also helped him reach a big milestone: his 100th wicket in Ashes matches.

England won the toss and chose a pace-heavy lineup of their own. They left out young spinner Shoaib Bashir and went with Brydon Carse, hoping the fast Perth pitch would work in their favor. Australia also surprised fans by handing debuts to bowler Brendan Doggett and opener Jake Weatherald.

Mitchell Starc made an impact almost immediately. In the very first over, he fired a 144 kph ball across Zak Crawley, who reached for an off-drive and edged it to Usman Khawaja at first slip. Crawley was out for a six-ball duck, giving Australia a perfect start.

Starc kept the pressure on and soon trapped Ben Duckett lbw for 21 with a full inswinger. His biggest moment came when he dismissed Joe Root before he could score. A sharp delivery squared up Root, and Marnus Labuschagne grabbed the catch at third slip. That wicket gave Starc his 100th in Ashes history.

Cameron Green, finally back to bowling after recovering from a back injury, added to England’s problems. He got Ollie Pope out lbw for 46, ending England’s best stand of the morning.

Harry Brook (28) and captain Ben Stokes (4) were still at the crease at lunch, trying to settle things down. But with Australia’s fast bowlers locked in early and the momentum on their side, England already faces an uphill battle as the Ashes opener continues.

Also Read: England Aiming for Career-Defining Ashes Win in Australia