An emotional Alex Carey scored a controversial 106 while Usman Khawaja added a resilient 82 on Wednesday, putting Australia in control of the third Ashes Test against England at Adelaide Oval. The hosts finished day one at 326-8.
Australia batted after captain Pat Cummins won the toss, facing sweltering 36-degree Celsius heat. Steve Smith was unexpectedly ruled out with illness, giving Khawaja a chance to open and deliver a crucial innings.
Read more : Australia simplifies visa process for Pakistanis
Carey’s century was clouded by controversy after a likely edge to Josh Tongue was missed by the umpire and not overturned on review, though Carey remained focused, dedicating his milestone to his late father. He hit eight fours and a six in front of 56,298 fans, the largest crowd at the venue.
Khawaja, reprieved due to Smith’s absence, made the most of his opportunity, scoring a stoic 82 before falling just before tea. His innings included a fortunate early life, and he stabilized Australia’s innings after a middle-order collapse.
Read more : Australian teens evade social media age ban
England’s Jofra Archer impressed with the ball, taking three crucial wickets for 29 runs. Despite Archer’s fiery spells and a post-lunch burst, Australia’s lower-order partnerships, including contributions from Cummins and Starc, helped maintain momentum.
Players observed a moment of silence and wore black armbands to honor victims of the Bondi Beach mass shooting. Security was tightened, and flags flew at half-mast as the Ashes continued amidst solemn tributes.