Alex Carey's Brilliant Ton Helps Australia Recover After A Swift English Ashes Assault.
In the wake of the pandemonium from the Perth Test as well as Brisbane's pink-ball spectacle, a more traditional style regarding the longest format was witnessed at the Adelaide ground. For the delighted South Australian fans, the day proved a day to savour, as their boy Alex Carey notched up a sparkling hundred at his home venue as Australia the home side edge day one.
However, England, 2-0 down and still fighting in the series, could be entirely downbeat. Ben Stokes had lost what appeared a crucial toss and, despite being not at their best, his bowlers kept plugging away in scorching heat. At stumps, the Australians had reached 326 for eight from 83 overs bowled – runs on the board yet likely below their ambitions after captain Pat Cummins won the choice first thing.
The Pace of Archer Stands Out For The Tourist's Fightback.
The most impressive performer among England was speedster Jofra Archer. Figures of 3/29 off his 16 overs were a strong response against the scrutiny that came his way. Here he clearly spearheaded the attack, clocking around 88mph (142kmh) with the speed gun and offering Stokes a combination of accuracy together with obvious threat. It was only towards the end of the day – during a single over using the fresh cherry – did he look a bit weary.
Having dismissed Jake Weatherald early on, Archer's first over post-lunch accounted for Marnus Labuschagne followed by Cameron Green in the space of three balls. The all-rounder's golden duck served as a reminder that this sport can swiftly bring even a celebrated player back down to earth, coming from weak chip shot to the mid-wicket fielder occurring less than a day after trousering a record multi-million dollar contract for the upcoming Indian Premier League.
The Keeper's Priceless Contribution Rescues The Innings.
Carey's day, however, was nothing short of priceless, culminating around late afternoon when he drove Ben Stokes through the covers for three and the Adelaide faithful to rise in a huge roar. Coming off that masterful display with the gloves at the Gabba, the left-hander's aggressive 106 from 143 balls ensured that the post-lunch wobble to 94 for four did not become a complete crisis. The 34-year-old has become a serious Test match player these days.
Australia undoubtedly left a few potential runs on the field, however. Absent was the pronounced bounce of the first two Tests replaced by just a hint of seam movement when a good length was located.
The pitch also offered a bit of turn for Will Jacks, although his consistency was typical of a part-timer – hence expensive figures of two for 105 from 20 overs – but the deliveries he did get to turn sharply will encourage Nathan Lyon.
Solemn Backdrop and Late Team Change.
The day's play was always going to be a poignant occasion for the host nation, arriving so soon after the horrific terrorist attack in Bondi. A minute's silence observed prior to the start of play was immaculately held, followed by folk singer John Williams performing an emotional version of the anthem True Blue.
Earlier, Australia were also forced into an alteration from their stated XI. Veteran batsman Steve Smith was withdrawn due to feeling dizzy along with nausea in the morning – seemingly recurrence of the vertigo which has periodically affected him since he was struck by a Jofra Archer bouncer at Lord's six years ago.
In came Usman Khawaja, just 24 hours after it was speculated his Test career may be over. Until Carey's arrival, the left-hander had expertly held the innings together, coming to the crease with the score on 33/2 and crafting a fine 82 from 126 balls just a day before turning 39. Stands worth 61 runs with Marnus Labuschagne plus another of 91 runs with Alex Carey were significant.
The Tourist's Mixed Bag Persists.
Archer aside, and notwithstanding the sapping conditions, this was still another frustrating day from England’s attack. Brydon Carse rather continued his inconsistent form of the first two Tests, picking up two for 70 off 13 overs, while the recalled Josh Tongue claimed one for 63 in 15 overs.
The Durham bowler was erratic when handed sharing the new cherry first thing, no-balling on five occasions yet removing Travis Head for 10 thanks to a spectacular catch by Zak Crawley at cover. It rather summed up the day for both sides: brilliance interspersed with some error-prone play.
