Ashes: Mitchell Starc takes a wicket in the first over of an innings for 27th time, removes Crawley

Mitchell Starc once again underlined his reputation as one of cricket’s most destructive new-ball bowlers, claiming a record-extending 27th wicket in the opening over of an innings during the latest Ashes contest. The Australia fast bowler struck early to remove Zak Crawley, marking the third time Starc has dismissed the England opener and the fourth time he has taken a wicket in the first over in the series.

The pressure applied by Australia’s pace attack soon told, with Ben Duckett enduring another difficult moment in the series. Duckett was later dismissed by Michael Neser for 42 – his highest score of this Ashes – after chopping the ball back onto his stumps. It was the fourth time he had been bowled in the series, prompting former England fast bowler Stuart Broad to note Duckett’s slow walk back to the pavilion and visible frustration at his own dismissal.

Despite England’s attempts to steady themselves, scoring remained hazardous. Bethell endured a testing spell, surviving a sharp delivery from Michael Neser that struck his helmet and knocked him to the ground, prompting commentators to suggest that “demons” were still lurking on the pitch.

At the time of reporting, England were 93 for two, still needing 90 runs to force Australia to bat again. While the side showed resilience, Starc’s latest first-over breakthrough once more highlighted his enduring value as a match-defining force with the new ball. (With inputs from Agencies)