Day one at the MCG crackled with Ashes drama, a topsy-turvy opening chapter that swung like a Mitchell Starc inswinger before Australia finished on top by stumps.
England struck first through an inspired Josh Tongue spell, the tall quick ripping through Australia’s middle order with pace and bounce. His five-wicket burst rattled the hosts and dragged them from a steady start to a modest 152. Michael Neser fought hard for his 35, Usman Khawaja chipped in with 29, but Australia never quite settled as England’s seamers hunted in packs.
Then came the twist.
Under bright Melbourne skies, Australia hit back with fierce intent. Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland found movement straight away, and the English top order crumbled. Harry Brook’s 41 stood out — a brave counterattack in the middle — yet support never arrived. England were bundled out for 110, leaving the crowd roaring as the match flipped on its head.
With a 42-run lead in hand, Australia’s openers returned for a nervy mini-session before stumps. Scott Boland and Travis Head played calmly, guiding the hosts to 4 without loss. No fireworks — just quiet control, and a growing sense of authority.
At the end of a gripping first day, Australia sat 46 runs ahead with ten wickets in hand. Momentum is theirs, but in an Ashes battle this volatile, the next session may write a very different story.
