Rain Plays Spoilsport as Root–Brook Stand Rescues England on Day 1 of 5th Ashes Test

 

The series had already slipped out of England’s hands, but a morale-boosting win in the Melbourne Test helped them regain some pride. All eyes were on the fifth Test, but persistent rain dominated proceedings and heavily curtailed play.

Winning the toss in the rain-affected match, Ben Stokes opted to bat first—a decision that could have backfired if not for the composure and resilience shown by Joe Root and Harry Brook. Thanks to their partnership, England recovered from early trouble to reach 211 for 3 at the close of the first day.

Only 45 overs were possible due to frequent rain interruptions. England found themselves under pressure early after losing three wickets for just 57 runs. Ben Duckett was dismissed caught behind  for 27 by Mitchell Starc, while Zak Crawley managed 16 before falling lbw to Michael Neser. Jacob Bethell scored 10 before becoming Scott Boland’s victim as the ball moved enough to get the outside edge to the keeper .

From there, Root and Brook steadied the innings with a crucial partnership that has so far yielded 154 runs. Root playing glorious shots particularly on the offside remained unbeaten on 72, while Brook was batting confidently in his belligerent self though much more selective this time on 78 when play was finally abandoned due to  rain & bad light . England ended the day at 211 for 3.