The Ashes 2025 third Test has kicked off with a dramatic first day, and the tension is palpable as we bring you live updates. Australia found themselves in a precarious situation after lunch, suffering a double blow as both Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green fell victim to Jofra Archer's impressive bowling in his very first over of the session.
Key Highlights
- WICKET: Archer delivers, Weatherald dismissed.
- Injury Update: Learn why Steve Smith was unable to participate.
- Recap: A summary of the day's events so far.
As we prepare for the resumption of play, it's worth taking a moment to reflect on the first session. It seems that the balance of power was fairly evenly distributed, but what are your thoughts?
WICKET: Green Falls
Cameron Green faced yet another disappointing dismissal, marking a soft exit as Australia lost two wickets in just three balls to Archer right after the lunch break. The unsettling reality is that all four wickets Australia has lost today could have easily been avoided, putting England in a commanding position on a pitch that’s generally favorable for batting.
WICKET: Labuschagne Dismissed
Marnus Labuschagne's dismissal was particularly lackluster. One could say his mind was perhaps occupied by the enticing lunch buffet rather than the game itself. On the very first ball after lunch, he unwittingly sent an easy catch to Brydon Carse at mid-wicket, who surely won’t see an easier opportunity in Test cricket.
Archer Starts Strong for England
As play resumes, Labuschagne is up to face the initial delivery of the afternoon session. He had managed to score 19 runs off 39 balls when Archer bowled him out. What an electrifying start for the English side!
Lunch Break Quiz
To lighten the mood during the lunch interval, here’s a fun trivia question. The first question might be a tad dated – a reference to Paul Kelly’s song ‘Bradman’ – but the subsequent four should resonate more with current fans.
Khawaja Dominates Against Jacks
Usman Khawaja has taken charge of the match, showcasing his skills against Will Jacks before the lunch break, rocketing to 41 runs off 55 balls as he stepped in for the sidelined Steve Smith. Jacks, not being a frontline spinner, will likely have to bowl extensively in the searing Adelaide heat. Khawaja displayed his mastery of the sweep shot, ensuring Jacks doesn't establish any rhythm. However, the pitch still holds potential for bowlers who can find the right areas; one of Khawaja's defensive attempts nearly resulted in an edge, narrowly missing slip.
Khawaja in Unfamiliar Territory
Remarkably, this marks the second instance where Usman Khawaja has surpassed the 23-run mark in his last ten Test innings. He owes his continued presence at the crease to a dropped catch by Brook, but he's now capitalizing on his good fortune. This phase is crucial for Australia, especially after England initially seized momentum. Khawaja, an adept player against spin, must be relieved to face Jacks instead of Archer as they move into the next sessions.
Targeting Jacks
Australia is unlikely to allow Jacks to settle into a groove. Although he's not their primary spinner, his performance will be pivotal under these conditions. If Australia can dismiss Jacks swiftly, it would compel Ben Stokes to rely more heavily on his fast bowlers, who will face considerable strain in the intense heat.
Khawaja Finding His Feet
As the final quarter-hour before lunch ticks away, Khawaja and Labuschagne have steadied the ship after the early loss of their openers. With the pitch not offering significant assistance to bowlers, there’s a chance for Australia to capitalize in the afternoon if they can tire out England’s quicks.
Khawaja, having been dropped on five, is starting to assert himself and has scored 16 runs from 12 balls since then, boosting his confidence with well-executed shots. In contrast, Labuschagne appears to be struggling to keep the scoreboard moving, seeking refuge in the dressing room as he contends with England's disciplined bowling.
Brook's Missed Opportunity
Harry Brook had a glaring chance to make a catch that simply cannot be dropped, particularly on such an important day in Adelaide. Mark Waugh, known for his keen observations in commentary, didn’t hold back his disappointment, labeling it a regulation catch for players at this level. While Zak Crawley excelled with a brilliant catch earlier to dismiss Travis Head, England's fielding troubles from the Gabba – where they missed five catches in Australia's first innings – loom ominously once again.
