Australia’s innings began in dramatic fashion in Perth as Jofra Archer produced a perfect early breakthrough, dismissing debutant Jake Weatherald for a second-ball duck. England, defending a modest first-innings total of 172, needed an early strike — and Archer delivered instantly.
Bowling at 140 kph, Archer sent down a full, late-swinging delivery that pitched in line and jagged back sharply. Weatherald, looking to flick it across the line, fell over his shot and was struck low on the pads. England were instantly convinced, but umpire Adrian Holdstock shook his head. After a brief discussion, Ben Stokes sent it upstairs.
Ball-tracking confirmed the inevitable: crashing into middle and leg. Decision overturned. Weatherald lbw Archer 0(2).
It was the dream start England were hoping for and a tough initiation for Weatherald, who had been promoted to open in place of Usman Khawaja due to field-time restrictions. Australia slipped to 0/1 in just 0.2 overs, with Marnus Labuschagne joining Steven Smith at the crease to rebuild.
Archer, playing his first Ashes Test in Australia, has already stamped his authority on the contest with pace, precision and impact.
