Perth, Nov 22 (V7N) — The first Ashes Test at Perth ended in a stunning two-day finish, with Australia defeating England by 8 wickets.

The match began as a bowler-friendly contest, with both teams struggling to post big totals. England’s first innings was modest, finishing at 172, despite half-centuries from Harry Brook (52), Ollie Pope (46), and Jamie Smith (33). Pacer Mitchell Starc dominated with 7 wickets, leaving the English batsmen unable to settle at the crease.

Australia’s first innings fared no better, all out for 132, with only Travis Head (21), Alex Carey (26), and Steven Smith (17) showing some resistance.

In England’s second innings, hope briefly flickered with contributions from Duckett, Pope, and Atkinson, but the team was bowled out for 164, leaving Australia with a small target.

What seemed like a pitch favoring bowlers transformed in the fourth innings, thanks to Travis Head’s explosive 123 off 83 balls. Head’s aggressive batting, alongside a fifty from Marnus Labuschagne, sealed the match quickly, ending the Test in just two days.

Mitchell Starc was named Man of the Match for his match figures of 10 wickets, taking 7 in the first innings and 3 in the second.

The second Ashes Test promises a different contest, but Perth will be remembered for Australia’s dominant performance and Travis Head’s match-turning innings.

END/SMA/AJ