Alex Carey produced a composed and authoritative century under pressure to steer Australia out of trouble on Day 1 of the third Ashes Test against England at the Adelaide Oval on Tuesday. Walking in at a testing phase after the hosts lost a couple of wickets in quick succession, Carey counterattacked with confidence to restore momentum and put Australia in a strong position by the third session.
Australia, who won the toss and opted to bat, were without Steve Smith, ruled out shortly before play due to illness. The absence of their star batter made the middle-order responsibility heavier, and England sensed an opening after removing Usman Khawaja just short of a hundred. However, Carey ensured there were no further regrets for the hosts.
"That one is for you dad!"
A wonderful moment as the hometown hero Alex Carey brings up 100.#Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/aEdfwRedz5
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2025
Batting with clarity and intent, Carey balanced solid defence with well-timed aggression. He rotated the strike smartly and punished loose deliveries, gradually shifting the pressure back onto England’s bowlers. His partnership with the lower order, particularly Mitchell Starc, proved crucial in stretching the innings deep and frustrating the visitors late in the day.
Carey reached his hundred in style, driving through the covers for three runs to bring up the milestone. He removed his helmet to acknowledge the applause as the Adelaide crowd rose to its feet, while teammates applauded warmly from the dressing room. Starc was quick to congratulate him with a hug at the non-striker’s end, underlining the significance of the knock.
At stumps, Australia were well placed, with Carey unbeaten on 101, having played one of his finest Test innings under pressure. On a day marked by emotional tributes and challenging circumstances, Carey’s calm yet assertive hundred stood out as the defining moment, giving the home side a solid platform heading into Day 2.
