Ashes Thriller: England Reach 211/3 on Day 1 Against Australia in 5th Test – Full Scorecard Breakdown

In a gripping start to the decisive 5th Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series, England ended Day 1 at 211/3 after 45 overs against Australia, showcasing a solid recovery led by Joe Root and Harry Brook.[1]

The match at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground saw Australia win the toss and bowl first, putting England's top order under immediate pressure. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett got the innings underway, but early breakthroughs left England at 51/2 by drinks in the 11th over. Crawley fell to an LBW decision in the 11.4 over, with England unsuccessfully reviewing the call – umpire Ahsan Raza's decision stood as Umpire's Call.[1][2]

Post-lunch, Joe Root (72* off 65 balls, 7x4) and Harry Brook (78* off 63 balls, 5x4) forged a masterful 150-run 4th wicket partnership off 184 balls, rescuing England from precarious positions. Milestones tumbled: England crossed 100 in 22.6 overs, 150 in 31.1 overs, and 200 in 41.6 overs. Root notched his 50 off 65 balls, while Brook reached his half-century off 63 balls.[1]

Play was halted multiple times due to bad light and rain, with the final session seeing no further wickets. Lunch was taken at 114/3 (24 overs), drinks at 170/3 (36 overs), and tea/bad light at 211/3 (45 overs).[1]

Australia's bowlers toiled without much reward on a pitch offering early assistance. Key sessions:

• England 100/3 in 22.6 overs (Extras 7)
• 4th wicket 50 in 63 balls (Root 31, Brook 16, Ex 3)
• 4th wicket 100 in 122 balls (Root 50, Brook 47, Ex 3)
• End of Day: Root 72*, Brook 78*, Extras 8[1]

This poised finish keeps the Ashes alive, with England eyeing a strong first-innings total. Fans in India can catch live updates on major cricket platforms as the series heads to its climax.[1][2]