Pace Dominance and Pitch Debate Grip Ashes Opener
The first day of the highly anticipated Ashes Test in Perth witnessed an extraordinary bowling spectacle as 19 wickets tumbled in just 72 overs, leaving cricket fans and experts stunned. The dramatic collapse saw England bowled out for 172 in 33 overs, followed by Australia struggling at 123/9 by stumps on Friday, November 21, 2025.
Ashwin's Pointed Social Media Commentary
Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin quickly took to social media platform X to highlight what he termed as clear double standards in Test cricket. His post featured a GIF reading "Double Standards" alongside the message: "Only 19 wickets fell at Perth today, but an excellent days cricket. Oh no! What if the same happens tomorrow in Guwahati?"
This sharp observation references the frequent criticism directed at Indian pitches when similar batting collapses occur, contrasting it with the praise often given to overseas venues for producing "exciting" cricket despite similar conditions.
Starc's Career-Best Performance Decimates England
The day belonged to Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc, who delivered a career-best performance of 7/58. His devastating spell ensured England's innings wrapped up by the second session despite their aggressive approach that saw them scoring at 5.23 runs per over.
England's batting display was characterized by positive intent but lacked substantial partnerships, with wickets falling at regular intervals throughout their innings. The visitors' aggressive mindset backfired against Starc's relentless pace and accuracy.
Archer Strikes Early as Australia Stumbles
In a mirror image of England's collapse, Australia's reply began disastrously when Jofra Archer claimed a wicket in the very first over of the Australian innings. The hosts' batting lineup appeared disjointed and defensive, struggling to build momentum against England's disciplined bowling attack.
By the close of play on Day 1, Australia found themselves at 123/9, still trailing England's first innings total by 49 runs. The match situation became particularly intriguing with four full days remaining in what appears to be a rapidly progressing Test match.
The extraordinary events unfolded before over 51,000 spectators at Perth Stadium on a sunny day that promised batting-friendly conditions but delivered a pace-bowling masterclass instead. The dramatic day has set up an intriguing remainder of the Test match while reigniting conversations about pitch standards and consistency in cricket commentary worldwide.
