England Fight Back Through Root-Brook Stand to Claim Rain-Hit Day One

Despite rain interruptions and fading light forcing an early close, England claimed the opening day of the fifth Test. After winning the toss and suffering an early collapse, the visitors recovered strongly through a resolute partnership between Joe Root and Harry Brook. England ended the day on 211 for 3.

Under bright conditions at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), England captain Ben Stokes elected to bat after winning the toss. Ahead of the start of play, an emotional opening ceremony was held to honour those killed in last month’s terror attack, as well as the first responders, with the crowd rising to its feet in a standing ovation.

Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley got England off to a brisk start, putting on 35 runs for the opening stand. However, Mitchell Starc—who has been consistently effective throughout the series—struck once again. Duckett, who made 27 off 24 balls, edged behind to Alex Carey, who completed a sharp catch at slip.

Crawley followed soon after, dismissed for 17 after being trapped lbw by Michael Neser. Scott Boland then found the edge of Jacob Bethell, with Carey completing another catch, leaving England in trouble at 57 for 3. At that stage, Australia were firmly in control of the match.

From there, the momentum shifted decisively through Joe Root and Harry Brook. The pair survived until lunch before launching a counterattack in the second session. The Yorkshire duo scored freely, particularly targeting allrounder Cameron Green. While Brook rode his luck and survived several close calls, Root remained composed, controlled, and assured at the crease.

Their 154-run partnership completely swung the momentum in England’s favour. Eventually, deteriorating weather conditions and the umpires’ decision brought an early end to the day’s play, with England finishing strongly on 211 for 3.