England ensured that they took a stranglehold on Day 1 of the first Test of the Ashes 2015 as Joe Root hit an impressive 134 to lead them to a solid start.
READ MORE:
Relive 2005 Ashes: Infamous battle between England and Australia.
Ashes 2015 Day 1 lunch report: Hosts in the ascendency.
Ashes 2015 Day 1 tea report: Can Aussies hit back?
Root was dropped by Aussie wicketkeeper Brad Haddin on 0, and he certainly made the most of his second chance with what could turn out to be a vital innings in the grand scheme of things.
Gary Ballance added 61 while Ben Stokes went for 52 as England closed play on Day 1 at 343-7 with their rivals threatening to take the initiative late in the day.
However, Moeen Ali was not out on 26 as he will look to lead the charge on Day 2, with Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood taking three wickets apiece to star for the bowling attack.
While Stuart Broad ultimately ended up surviving the final few balls, Australia will be relatively pleased with taking seven wickets on the opening day after losing the toss.
It remains to be seen how they fare on the wicket when they come into bat, and that will tell us more on whether or not England have enjoyed a solid first day of what should be an intriguing and entertaining encounter between these two old rivals.
COMMENTS