Sat Nov 22 03:20:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
A highly eventful first day of the Ashes 2025/26 Test in Perth saw a record-breaking 19 wickets fall. Australia ended the day trailing England by 49 runs after being reduced to 123-9. Key moments included a verbal altercation between Travis Head and Ben Duckett during a drinks break, Ben Stokes’ five-wicket haul, and impactful bowling spells from Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse.
News Article:
Fiery First Day of Ashes Test in Perth Sees Record Wickets and Heated Exchange
Perth, Australia – The opening day of the Ashes 2025/26 Test in Perth was anything but dull, witnessing a staggering 19 wickets fall – the most in an Ashes Test since 1950.
The day’s drama wasn’t confined to the pitch. Australian batsman Travis Head and England’s Ben Duckett were involved in a heated exchange during the drinks break of the Australian innings. According to Channel 7 commentator Ricky Ponting, the pair share an “ongoing feud,” with verbal jabs exchanged after every leave.
England initially posted 172, courtesy of Mitchell Starc. But Australia found themselves in early trouble at 53-4, further compounded by the temporary absence of Usman Khawaja. England’s bowling attack, led by Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson put Australia on the back foot.
Brydon Carse dismissed key Australian batsmen Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja. Ben Stokes then ripped through the tail end to finish with five wickets, leaving the hosts reeling at 123-9 at stumps, trailing England by 49 runs.
The stage is set for a gripping second day as Australia look to claw their way back into the contest.
First Piper 