Scathing Headlines After First Day Collapse
Australia’s opening day in the 2025–26 Ashes has drawn sharp criticism from the country’s media, with newspapers labeling the performance a “disgrace” and calling the team “shell-shocked.” The outcry comes after England pulled off a stunning fightback, leaving Australia reeling.
Record Fall of Wickets & Huge Lead for England
On a remarkable Day 1, 19 wickets fell — a highly unusual tally for any Test match, but especially for the iconic Ashes series. England were dismissed for just 172, yet their bowlers struck back hard. Australia were reduced to 123 for 9, handing England a first-innings lead of 49 runs.
England’s comeback included a brilliant spell from skipper Ben Stokes, who took 5 for 45 in ten overs.Meanwhile, fast bowler Brydon Carse impressed by dismissing Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja, helping to shatter Australia’s lower-middle order.
Media Fury: “116-Year Low” & Career on the Brink
The Australian press didn’t hold back. The Sydney Morning Herald called the collapse a “stunning collapse” and described Day 1 as a “116-year low” for the national side.
Criticism also fell on Usman Khawaja, who was dropped from the top batting order under controversial circumstances. The Brisbane Courier-Mail claimed his career was “on the brink” after he moved to bat at No. 4 due to non-cricketing issues. And The West Australian ran a hard-hitting front page under the headline “Mulligan”, alluding to the team’s lacklustre comeback.
Leadership & Strategy Questioned
Former players and commentators have also questioned Australia’s leadership under the stand-in captain Steve Smith, who came in for the injured Pat Cummins. Media outlets have raised concerns about the team’s preparation and mindset, suggesting that the Ashes hosts underestimated England’s five-man pace attack.
Analysts argued that England’s bold decision to use a full seam-bowling unit paid off handsomely on a lively Optus Stadium pitch. The result: a humiliating first day that has put Australia firmly on the back foot in this high-stakes Test series.
Also Read: India vs South Africa 2nd Test Day 1: India Miss Early Breakthroughs in Guwahati
