England reached 211 for 3 at stumps on the opening day of the Ashes finale at the SCG, recovering from an early collapse of 57 for 3. Joe Root and Harry Brook combined for an unbroken 154-run partnership, the second-highest of the series for either side, ensuring England ended the day in a solid position after just 45 overs.
The SCG pitch, trimmed to just 5mm of grass by curator Adam Lewis, offered some early seam movement but quickly eased for batting. Root and Brook’s measured approach, combined with Sydney’s unpredictable weather, suggests this Test is likely to last longer than the two-day affairs in Perth and Melbourne.
Root and Brook Dominate as England Stabilize
England’s top order initially struggled against Australia’s seam attack, losing three wickets for 18 runs by the middle of the first session. Opener Ben Duckett started brightly, attacking Mitchell Starc with five boundaries in less than four overs, but was eventually dismissed by a well-pitched delivery. Zak Crawley and Jacob Bethell also fell cheaply, raising fears of another rapid collapse.
Joe Root and Harry Brook, however, steadied the innings. Root scored in his trademark style behind square on the off-side, while Brook displayed unusual restraint, curbing his typically aggressive instincts. Australia attempted to unsettle Brook with short balls, but he responded confidently, reaching a 63-ball half-century, while Root posted his own half-century off 65 balls.
Australia’s attack lacked variation, especially without specialist spinner Todd Murphy. All-rounder Cameron Green struggled to maintain the right length, finishing with 0 for 57 from eight overs, leaving skipper Steven Smith wishing for a more diverse bowling attack.
England’s strong finish gives them momentum after a challenging series, and Root and Brook’s partnership has laid the foundation for a competitive total. With weather interruptions possible, the outcome of this Ashes finale remains wide open, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
