But no one said it would be that fast, just one day into this seismic Ashes series.A whirlwind day that went at 100mph, with bowlers almost as fast on the speed gun. Mitchell Starc led the way with a spectacular seven-wicket haul,

Veteran quick Mitchell Starc was in devastating form, taking a career-best 7-58. But by the close, Ben Stokes was bouncing through Australian batters — and then the celebrations of his England team-mates — to bag 5-23 himself to ensure the visitors sleep well ahead of tomorrow’s second day, when Australia will resume on 123 for nine.

The Ashes is a storied rivalry between Australia and England that has captivated cricket fans since 1882. Born from a mock newspaper obituary, the series is symbolized by a tiny urn containing —

You couldn’t ask for anything much bigger in Test cricket than the 2025–26 Ashes. Australia vs England is the most historic rivalry in sport, and we could be about to get a series of a lifetime akin to those of 2005 or 2023 as Ben Stokes’ side face Australia.

Alastair Eykyn and Rob Hatch are better known for commentating on rugby and cycling but are helming coverage of the Ashes this winter

A 'jealous' Temba Bavuma watched the Ashes action unfold in Perth on Friday morning and wondered why South Africa get to a play just a two-Test series against India.