Joe Root’s Century Steals the Show on Day One of The Ashes
On the first day of The Ashes at Edgbaston, Joe Root stole the show with his unbeaten century. Root scored an impressive 118 runs off 145 balls, getting England off to a superb start. However, England captain Ben Stokes surprised everyone by declaring early on 393-8, leaving Australia with four overs to bat.
Root’s Century Against Australia
Root’s century against Australia was his first since 2015, and he is now just three centuries away from Alastair Cook in the most hundreds list. Fans at Edgbaston were expecting Root to stay in the crease for the rest of the day, but Stokes had other plans.
Stokes’ Surprise Declaration
Stokes stunned spectators by giving the visitors the remaining four overs. Banking on an early wicket, Australia finished day one on 14-0 as David Warner and Usman Khawaja looked comfortable in fending off Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson. This leaves England in a less commanding position going into the second day of the First Test.
Bairstow’s Thoughts on England’s Performance
Despite this, Jonny Bairstow believes it was a strong start from the hosts, who entertained the crowd right from the start after Zak Crowley hit a four on the opening delivery. Bairstow told Sky Sports that “the intent the lads showed…it has been a great day, the crowd has been amazing. The lads have been on good form and really enjoying it.”
Bairstow also spoke about the different pressures that come with playing in The Ashes, saying that “we have got a huge amount of trust in each other to go out and do their own jobs individually which collectively then comes together as a unit.”
Australia’s Hopes for The Ashes
In what is one of the most eagerly-awaited Ashes series in years, Australia is looking to win in the United Kingdom for the first time in 22 years. With a strong start from England, it remains to be seen how the rest of the series will play out.
Conclusion
Joe Root’s century on day one of The Ashes at Edgbaston stole the headlines, but England captain Ben Stokes surprised everyone by declaring early on 393-8. Despite this, Jonny Bairstow believes it was a strong start from the hosts, who entertained the crowd right from the start. With Australia looking to win in the United Kingdom for the first time in 22 years, it remains to be seen how the rest of the series will play out.