19 wickets fall on Day 1 of Ashes opener in Perth, Starc and Stokes shine

The Ashes 2025 series began in spectacular fashion at Perth’s Optus Stadium, where 19 wickets tumbled on the first day, turning the match into a bowlers’ showcase. For the first time in 143 years of Ashes history, so many wickets fell on day one, breaking long-standing records. England was bowled out for 172, and Australia finished the day struggling at 123 for 9.

The day belonged to the pacers. Australia’s Mitchell Starc claimed a career-best 7 for 58, while England captain Ben Stokes produced a fiery 5 for 23, keeping the hosts under pressure throughout. England, having won the toss and chosen to bat, were rocked early as Starc removed Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root in a sensational opening burst. Harry Brook (52) and Ollie Pope (46) attempted a recovery, but the innings quickly collapsed once Starc returned for his second spell. Debutant Brendan Doggett also picked up two key wickets, and Cameron Green struck at a crucial moment to dismiss Pope.

Australia’s reply was no less dramatic. Early wickets fell to a short-ball barrage, with debutant Jake Weatherald dismissed for a duck by Jofra Archer. Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne battled the pace attack but both fell to Brydon Carse, leaving Australia at 31 for 4. Travis Head and Cameron Green added a 45-run partnership to stabilize the innings, only for Stokes to strike again, removing both in quick succession. Alex Carey’s counterattack (26) offered some hope, but Stokes produced a devastating over, dismissing Starc, Carey, and Scott Boland.

At stumps, Australia were 123 for 9, still trailing England by 49 runs, setting up a tense contest for the next day. The first day of the Perth Ashes will be remembered for its extraordinary bowling performances and record-breaking wicket fall.

Brief scores: England: 172 (Harry Brook 52, Ollie Pope 46; Mitchell Starc 7/58) Australia: 123/9 (Alex Carey 26, Cameron Green 24; Ben Stokes 5/23)