PERTH – Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope staged a resolute 59-run partnership on day two of the first Ashes Test on Saturday, putting England firmly in control after dismissing Australia for just 132 in their first innings. At lunch, the visitors were 59-1, leading by 99, with Duckett on 28 and Pope unbeaten on 24.
Mitchell Starc continued his ruthless form, removing Zak Crawley for a pair with a stunning caught-and-bowled, having earlier taken a career-best 7-58 in Australia’s first innings. Starc has now claimed a wicket in the opening over of a Test 25 times. Nathan Lyon added only four runs before being dismissed by Brydon Carse, leaving Australia trailing significantly.
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England’s bowling hero, Ben Stokes, was instrumental in the collapse, finishing with figures of 5-23 off just 36 balls. His performance gave England a golden opportunity to secure a Test win in Australia for the first time since 2010–11. Despite the loss of early wickets, Duckett and Pope steadied the innings, exploiting some loose bowling, particularly from Scott Boland.
Joe Root, England’s captain, is due to bat next but suffered a scare after reportedly injuring his left ankle during a warm-up session. Root was dismissed for a duck in the first innings and continues to chase his elusive first Test century in Australia.
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With the momentum firmly in their favour, England will aim to build a commanding lead and press for a rare victory on Australian soil.