England’s senior batter Joe Root and the in-form Harry Brook displayed remarkable composure and skill to blunt Australia’s pace attack on Day 1 of the fifth and final Ashes Test, as rain repeatedly disrupted play at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday, January 4.
After England captain Ben Stokes opted to bat first in front of a packed SCG crowd, the visitors found stability thanksto an unbeaten 154-run stand between Root and Brook. The duo guided England to 211 for 3 before fading light forced the players off the field shortly before the tea interval.
Persistent rain and the looming threat of lightning prevented any further action, leading officials to call stumps an hour early on a stop-start opening day.
At the close of play on Day 1, England appeared to hold the advantage in the rain-affected contest, with Root and Brook firmly in control and wickets in hand as the series finale delicately balanced.
Stumps – Day 1
5th Test, Ashes Series
Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
England 1st Innings: 211/3 (45 overs)
