Australia vs England 1st Ashes Test: England’s 2025-26 Ashes campaign began in almost the worst way possible, as they folded for an eight-wicket defeat inside two days in Perth. The batting unit failed in both innings, leaving Australia firmly in control as England suffered one of their most statistically grim Test outings in over a century.
Australia vs England 1st Ashes Test: A Two-Day Nightmare for the Batters
Nothing clicked for England with the bat, as they were bundled out in just 172 balls in the first innings. It was no different in the second, as the visitors lasted just 164 balls before folding again. That means their total of 405 deliveries faced is now the third-lowest in Test history, better only than their 1904 and 1888 collapses.
These quick dismissals indicated a lack of application, poor shot selection, and failure to adapt to the extra pace and bounce that Perth’s surface usually offers.
Australia vs England 1st Ashes Test: Australian Bowlers Lead the Way
The fast bowlers of Australia set the tone early with their consistent line and relentless short-pitched pressure, which disturbed England’s plans. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood did the significant damage, supported by disciplined spells of backing.
The Australian batsmen kept things simple and composed with a modest target to chase. They negotiated the surface confidently, posting an eight-wicket win that reflected complete dominance over both days.
Australia vs England 1st Ashes Test: How the Perth Test Unfolded
The first Ashes Test started with England calling the toss right and opting to bat, with a view to setting a good platform. Instead, the innings quickly came off the rails as early wickets sent shockwaves through the dressing room. Barring brief resistance in the middle order, England never stitched together meaningful partnerships.
Australia’s first innings, too, had its stutter: a mini-collapse induced by sharp swing early on. But Travis Head’s counterattacking century flipped the match on its head. His free-flowing 123 shifted momentum firmly towards the hosts and put the pressure squarely back on England.
The second innings for England was a repeat of the first: early wickets, nervous pokes outside off, and no sign of stability whatsoever. Australia’s chase on Day 2 was clinical, and any hope of a miraculous turnaround evaporated within the first hour.
Australia vs England 1st Ashes Test: Stokes on Perth Test Loss
Ben Stokes did not shy away from the disappointment, admitting that his side must wear the hurt before they regroup. Calling Head’s century “pretty incredible,” he stressed the need for emotional balance within the squad.
Stokes, however, remains undeterred, citing how England have recovered from such starts in the past in series. Now, he just wants to reset the morale and attitude ahead of the next Test in Brisbane.
