England's opening batsman, Zak Crawley, has struck a note of cautious optimism following a challenging but resilient first day for the visitors in the crucial Brisbane Test against Australia. Despite facing a formidable Australian bowling attack on a lively Gabba pitch, Crawley highlighted the team's positive fightback in the latter stages of the day's play as a key takeaway.
A Gruelling Start at The Gabba
The opening day of the highly anticipated Ashes clash in Brisbane on December 5, 2025, presented a stern examination for the English batters. Australia's pace battery, exploiting the traditional bounce and pace of the Gabba wicket, made early inroads to put England under significant pressure. The top order faced a relentless examination, with wickets falling at regular intervals during the first two sessions.
However, the narrative began to shift as the day progressed. England's middle and lower order dug deep, showcasing grit and determination to steer the team towards a more respectable total. This period of resistance, characterised by stubborn partnerships and calculated strokeplay, allowed England to recover from a precarious position and finish the day with a sense of momentum.
Crawley's Assessment: Finding Positives in the Fightback
Speaking after the day's play, Zak Crawley acknowledged the difficulty of the conditions but was keen to focus on the team's character. "We're positive," Crawley stated, emphasising the collective spirit in the dressing room. He praised the manner in which the team batted in the final session, viewing it as a foundation they can build upon when play resumes on Day 2.
"It was obviously very tough early on," Crawley admitted, referencing the potent Australian bowling. "But the way the guys stuck at it, the way we played in that last session, has given us a real boost. We showed a lot of fight, and that's what you need to do in these conditions against this attack." His comments underscore a mindset focused on resilience rather than dwelling on the early setbacks, a crucial attitude for any team touring Australia.
The Road Ahead for England in Brisbane
The importance of the first Test in an Ashes series, particularly at the Gabba—a venue known for setting the tone for the remainder of the contest—cannot be overstated. England's ability to weather the early storm and post a competitive first-innings total will be vital to their chances of securing a positive result. Crawley's positive outlook suggests the team believes they are still very much in the contest.
The focus now shifts to Day 2, where England's remaining batters will aim to capitalise on the fightback. Every run added will be crucial before the bowlers get their chance to exploit any moisture or wear in the pitch. The Brisbane Test promises more high-octane cricket as this latest chapter of the historic Ashes 2025 rivalry continues to unfold.
