Australia and England traded blows on Day 1 as the home team were bowled out for 283. The fifth and final test match of the Ashes 2023 began on Thursday at the Oval in London. Australia had already retained the urn thanks to the draw in Manchester test as they now have a 2-1 lead in the series. England, meanwhile need a win to draw the series and prevent Australia from winning in England for the first time since 2001.
The story as it happened –
England were bowled out for 283 in their 1st innings as the Baz-Ball style of play was in full display. David Warner playing his final test in England was out for 24 when he was dismissed by Chris Woakes.
Joe Root sends Oval crazy with his stupendous catch –
Marnus Labuschagne had scored a memorable century in the 4th test at Manchester. The 29 year old was watchful against the English bowlers. After having played 81 balls for his 9 runs without any boundaries, Marnus Labuschagne was finally out.
Mark Wood had toiled hard as he found the edge from the bat of the Australian number 3. Joe Root, who was fielding at the first slip flung himself to his left as the ball was travelling with great speed. Root grabbed the ball one handed to give England their 2nd wicket after nearly toiling for over 25 overs.
Australia lose six wickets before tea –
After the fall of Labuschagne, it was the turn of Stuart Broad to further jolt the Australians. The 37 year old first got rid of Khawaja for 47 off 157 balls with 7 fours, and then got the wicket of Travis Head for 4. James Anderson got into the groove when he bowled Mitchell Marsh for 16 before Joe Root got the wicket of Alex Carey for 10. Steve Smith was not out on 35 with Australia still 113 runs behind.
🎶 Come on, Woody, let's go party (ah ah ah yeah) 🎶 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/5UewujrAmM
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 28, 2023
Marnus Labuschange scored just 9 runs off 82 deliveries before being caught by Root. Dozed off twice during his innings. This is why we need Stoke’s bazball!
— Iain Hall (@Iainrhall) July 28, 2023
Think Marnus was bitching about the light there. Sorry mate💡
— Darryl Hartley (@Charlieowl7) July 28, 2023
#Ashes Marnus you had it coming .
— Cricket Aficionado 🇦🇺🌏🌏 (@Tafe25) July 28, 2023
You can't miss 5 half volleys under pretext of its moving .
Marnus has really, really wasted everyone’s time there, especially his own.
— Edward Clibbens (@Land_Captain) July 28, 2023