Aussies in driving seat as English openers fall just
Aussies Despite limited play due to rain, Sunday’s Ashes clash between England and Australia in Birmingham still offered some gripping moments from Test cricket. Bowled in less than 33 overs on a balmy day, the match featured an engrossing and dramatic innings.
England started the day in superb form, taking advantage of Australia’s passive approach and executing their well-thought-out plans with precision, much to the delight of a bustling Hollies Stand. However, the Australian team threw caution to the wind during the brief period between showers, which arrived after lunch as expected. With the ball showing more movement than at any other point in the match, Australia’s pace bowlers made the benign pitch treacherous. England, fortunate to have lost only two wickets, face a stern test.
Monday’s forecast calls for dry weather, but rain expected on Tuesday could influence England’s decision on a potential announcement, provided they are on strike long enough to consider such a move. There is a concern that the pitch may deteriorate and provide help in the spin, which favors Moeen Ali. However, the English off-spinner suffered a troublesome cut on his spinner’s finger, which affected his bowling on Sunday morning.
When play then resumed at 3.30pm after a rain delay, Duckett and Crawley found themselves in a precarious position. In ideal conditions for the Aussie bowlers, Pat Cummins cut wide off stump, tempting Duckett, who followed his instincts and put the ball into the hands of Cameron Green in the channel.
