Australia emerged victorious on an exhilarating final day, securing a significant early advantage in the Ashes series with a thrilling two-wicket triumph at Edgbaston.
Australia Win Frist Ashes Test
The opening match of the new ICC World Test Championship cycle concluded in dramatic fashion as Pat Cummins showcased exceptional leadership skills and delivered a remarkable batting performance, leading his team to a memorable victory in the twilight of Birmingham.
Despite England being the favorites as Pat Cummins stepped onto the crease, the Australian captain played a crucial role in turning the tables. He contributed 18 runs alongside Alex Carey and then formed a match-winning partnership with Nathan Lyon, leading the first Ashes match to a thrilling conclusion.
Pat Cummins Captain Knock
In the end, it was Cummins who scored the winning runs, remaining unbeaten on 44. He was greeted with embraces from the undefeated Lyon (16), sealing the victory for Australia.
ICC World Test Championship
The first session of the day was washed out due to rain, compressing the day’s play. When the game finally resumed on a cloudy afternoon, Australia started at 107/3, with all results still possible.
Chasing a target of 174 runs, Usman Khawaja and Scott Boland made England work hard for an early breakthrough. However, Stuart Broad managed to induce an edge from the nightwatchman, dismissing Boland for his highest Test score of 20.
Australia patiently played their innings, with Travis Head successfully negotiating a spell of short-pitched bowling. Moeen Ali, who struggled with a finger injury, produced a superb delivery that trapped Head, resulting in a sharp catch by Joe Root at first slip.
At tea, Australia found themselves in a decent position at five wickets down. However, England found a glimmer of hope when Ollie Robinson dismissed Cameron Green after his patient vigil of 28 runs, as he chopped the ball onto his stumps.
Usman Khawaja’s defiant innings of 65 runs, spanning 197 balls, also came to an end when England captain Stokes deceived him with a slower ball, resulting in a similar dismissal.
England delayed taking the new ball, and their decision paid off when Joe Root, the part-time spinner, claimed a sharp caught and bowled chance to dismiss Alex Carey for 20 runs. At this point, Australia still required 54 runs for victory.
The tension escalated as England tried everything to secure the remaining wickets they needed. However, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon remained composed under pressure, ultimately guiding Australia to a famous victory.