Mitchell Starc delivered a statement of intent in the Ashes opener at Perth, dismissing England opener Zak Crawley for ducks in both innings and setting the tone for a gripping Test. Crawley lasted six balls in the first innings and only five in the second, becoming Starc’s early victim twice in as many attempts. Both dismissals came in the very first over, underlining Starc’s ability to strike before the opposition could settle.
The historic Test began with unprecedented drama, producing a remarkable 19-wicket opening day — the first time in more than a century of Ashes cricket that so many wickets have fallen on Day 1. Australia’s pace attack steamrolled England early, with Starc spearheading the assault through pace, swing, and relentless accuracy. His ferocious spell dismantled England’s top order almost single-handedly and kept the visitors under constant threat.
However, England mounted a spirited comeback. Despite managing just 172 in their first innings, Jofra Archer and captain Ben Stokes produced a counter-attack that swung the momentum back towards the visitors. England stormed to a valuable 40-run lead early on Day 2, turning what looked like a disastrous start into a competitive battle.
ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin Slams Critics After 19 Wickets Fall On Ashes Day 1 in Perth
Starc’s brilliance wasn’t confined to the ball alone. In Crawley’s second-innings dismissal, he showcased exceptional athleticism by completing a stunning one-handed catch after the ball looped off the batter’s soft outside edge. His awareness, movement, and sharp reflexes highlighted why he remains one of the most feared fast bowlers in world cricket.
WHAT A RIDICULOUS TAKE! Mitchell Starc sends Zak Crawley off for a pair! #Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/1cg8PtLzx4
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2025
Australia also found an unlikely hero with the bat in Nathan Lyon. Coming in at No. 9 on Day 1 — a rare occurrence for him that early in a Test — Lyon showed remarkable resilience. He battled through the testing spells of Archer and Stokes, even taking painful blows to his upper hip. Lyon survived the first day and partnered with debutant Brendan Doggett during the morning session of Day 2. However, the blow he sustained forced him off the field after his eventual dismissal, ruling him out of the remainder of the day’s play.
ALSO READ: Temba Bavuma Confirms Kagiso Rabada Ruled Out Of Guwahati Test Amid Injury Concerns
England’s second innings began on a shaky note with Crawley’s repeat dismissal, but Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope steadied the ship impressively. They tackled Starc’s pace with patience and positivity, stitching together a crucial half-century stand. Their partnership not only wiped out Australia’s early breakthrough but also extended England’s lead past the three-figure mark.
For Australia, breaking this partnership quickly — especially removing the dangerous Duckett — has become essential. His ability to dominate sessions and shift momentum makes him England’s key wicket as the Test continues to unfold.
