LEEDS: Mitchell Marsh’s impressive century guided Australia to a total of 263 all out on the opening day of the third Ashes Test against England at Headingley. Despite a collapse surrounding Marsh’s century, his valuable contribution set a solid foundation for the tourists. England’s Mark Wood showcased an exceptional bowling display, claiming 5-34 to limit Australia’s scoring opportunities.
Winning the toss, England’s captain Ben Stokes elected to field first, a decision that seemed justified when Wood quickly dismissed Australian opener David Warner with just the fifth ball of the day. However, Joe Root’s dropped catch at first slip off Chris Woakes allowed Marsh to survive when he was on 12, proving costly for the hosts.
Capitalizing on this opportunity, Marsh proceeded to compile an impressive run-a-ball knock of 118. He formed a crucial partnership of 155 runs with Travis Head (39), propelling Australia’s total to a promising position at 240-4. However, England fought back as Wood tore through the Australian lower order, taking the remaining six wickets for just 23 runs.
England’s Impressive Bowling Restricts Australia
Wood’s impactful performance came at a crucial time for England, who were already a bowler short due to Ollie Robinson’s absence after sustaining a back spasm. Marsh’s century included 15 boundaries and three sixes, marking his third Test hundred in 33 matches, all of which have come against England.
The 31-year-old all-rounder was eventually dismissed off the bowling of Woakes, edging the ball onto his thigh before it was caught by Zak Crawley at second slip. Following Marsh’s departure, Australia’s innings quickly unraveled with Root making amends for his earlier drop, catching Head off Woakes shortly after dropping a catch off Alex Carey.
Wood’s fiery spell continued as he clean-bowled Mitchell Starc and dismissed Australian captain Pat Cummins for a duck. He concluded Australia’s innings by dismissing Todd Murphy, securing his fifth career five-wicket haul in Tests.
The day began on a controversial note, with spectators expressing their disapproval of England’s defeat at Lord’s by jeering the Australian team during the national anthems. However, the atmosphere soon shifted as England’s Stuart Broad removed David Warner early on and Wood’s fiery pace caused trouble for the Australian batsmen.
