Australia could only make 132 runs in their first innings in Perth. They came out on the second morning with one wicket left and added just nine runs. England gained a 40 run lead from that collapse.
The Ashes opened with sharp pace and late movement. Both teams struggled with the bat. Wickets fell again and again. Nineteen wickets fell on the first day. It was the highest Day One tally in an Ashes Test in the last 100 years.
Mitchell Starc bowled with fire for Australia. He tore through England and took seven wickets. England were all out for 172 in only 32.5 overs. They have played fewer overs in an Ashes innings only once before, in 1887.
England struck back with the ball. Jofra Archer removed debutant Jack Weatherald for zero on the second ball of Australia’s innings. That opened the door.
Ben Stokes then took charge. He claimed five wickets. Brydon Carse took three. Archer took two. England’s attack used pace and bounce to full effect.
England now hold the lead after a wild start to the series.
