Post by : Maya Rahman

As the first Ashes Test kicks off in Perth this Friday, England enters the match brimming with optimism, eyeing a robust start to the five-match series. This enthusiasm stems from their recent form alongside Australia's setback of missing two vital fast bowlers. Historically, England has struggled to secure a win in the opening Ashes Test in Australia for nearly four decades and hasn't celebrated a victory in Perth since 1978. However, there's a renewed sense of possibility, and the visiting team is hopeful that they can finally shatter these long-standing records.

Australia’s injury concerns dominate the pre-match discussions, particularly with their captain and premier fast bowler Pat Cummins sidelined, along with reliable teammate Josh Hazlewood. Together, the duo boasts 604 Test wickets, and their absence is a significant disadvantage. Unthinkably, the “Bazball” initiative kicks off without these key figures, leaving Steve Smith to assume leadership in Cummins’ place.

To compensate, Australia will look to Scott Boland and debutant Brendan Doggett. Boland, renowned for claiming seven wickets on his debut during the 2021/22 Ashes, faces the challenging prospect of recovering from England’s previous onslaught in the 2023 series. Meanwhile, Doggett, yet to play a Test match, steps in with commendable domestic form.

Although England has previously played limited-overs matches at the modern Perth Stadium, this will mark their debut Test there. Their Test history in Perth predominantly comes from the old WACA ground, where past performances included eight consecutive losses. The last Test held in this venue in 2017 ended with a dismal innings defeat, marking the loss of the Ashes.

Only Joe Root still remembers the bitter 4-0 series defeat from that time. For teammates in Ben Stokes’ squad, Perth symbolizes an uncharted territory. Many have never played a Test in Australia, including debutant pacer Gus Atkinson, who claims to carry “no scars” from past matches, suggesting this lack of history could be advantageous.

Recognizing the importance of a strong start, England is aware that they have never triumphed in an Ashes series in Australia after being down 0-1, except in 1954/55. Their last campaign down under began poorly, featuring Rory Burns’s spectacular golden duck on the very first ball, resulting in an all-out for just 147, ultimately losing the match and the series.

Mitchell Starc, who bowled that infamous first ball, is set to lead Australia’s bowling attack again. At 35, he remains a formidable contender with his left-arm swing. He acknowledges that injuries are an unavoidable aspect of fast bowling, yet expresses confidence in Australia’s depth to cope. He commended both Boland and Doggett for their impressive recent performances.

While England hasn’t disclosed their bowling lineup, they possess numerous options. Fans are eager to witness another thrilling duel between Jofra Archer and Steve Smith, reminiscent of their memorable encounter at Lord’s in 2019 when Archer’s bouncer created a lasting Ashes moment.

In preparation, Archer, Mark Wood, Gus Atkinson, and Josh Tongue showcased impressive bowling in their warm-up match, suggesting that England may deploy four fast bowlers. Joe Root also contributed with some spin, while specialist spinner Shoaib Bashir bowled for the England Lions.

Australia's batting lineup remains uncertain as well. Marnus Labuschagne returns after a strong domestic season, while new opener Jake Weatherald is expected to make his Test debut, stepping in for Sam Konstas. All-rounder Cameron Green, having recovered from back surgery, appears ready to bowl. If he plays, it may mean Beau Webster misses out, allowing Labuschagne to return to his favored number three position, while Weatherald faces the challenge of the new ball.

With injuries impacting Australia and England coming in with a refreshing mindset, the first Test promises to be full of excitement and surprises. Both teams navigate unfamiliar lineups and emerging talents, paving the way for potential standout performances. For England, this could be their best opportunity in years to break free from historical losing streaks and seize control of the Ashes right from the outset.

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