ashes

Australia and England faced off on day one of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This fifth Ashes Test day saw England win the toss and choose to bat first on a pitch offering early movement.

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England reach 157 for 3 on opening day

At stumps, England were 157 for 3 in 33.4 overs. Joe Root and Harry Brook steadied the innings after early wickets. Root remained unbeaten on 50 while Brook supported him with a fluent 51 on the first day of the fifth Ashes test.

Early advantage for Australia with the new ball

Australia made early inroads through disciplined bowling. Mitchell Starc removed Ben Duckett early, while Michael Neser trapped Zak Crawley lbw. Scott Boland added pressure by dismissing Jacob Bethell, leaving England at 57 for 3.

Root and Brook change the momentum

After the early collapse, Root and Brook played with composure. Root relied on placement and timing, rotating strike and punishing loose deliveries. Brook mixed caution with aggression, driving confidently once settled. Their unbeaten partnership crossed 100 and shifted momentum back to England on the fifth Ashes Test day before stumps.

Pitch and conditions favor batting later

The SCG surface showed seam movement in the first session. As the day progressed, batting became easier. The outfield was quick and the bounce true, suggesting better scoring conditions on the second day of the fifth Ashes Test.

Australia’s bowling assessment

Starc generated pace and swing but went wicketless after his early breakthrough. Boland remained accurate and threatening. Australia opted to play without a frontline spinner, a decision that may be tested as the pitch wears.

Match outlook after day one

England will aim to build a strong first innings total with Root and Brook set on the fifth Ashes test day. Australia will look for early breakthroughs on day two to regain control. With the Ashes series already decided, both teams are playing for pride and momentum to close the tour.