Joe Root’s first Ashes century in eight years provided calm amid the storm as England and Australia traded blows in a high-octane opening day at the first Test that set up a fascinating Saturday at Edgbaston.
Root’s masterful 118 not out, the 30th ton of his career but a first against the old enemy since 2015, provided the centrepiece on a day of fiercely competitive cricket and outstanding entertainment that bodes well for the summer ahead.
Ben Stokes pulled a rabbit from the hat when he waved Root in at 393-8 – the earliest declaration in Ashes history after just 78 overs of the match – but his hopes of sniping a late wicket did not materialise. The renewal of Stuart Broad’s personal duel with David Warner provided some late theatre, but Australia resume on Saturday on 14 without loss after surviving the challenge as they look to overhaul the hosts’ first-innings total.
Follow the score and latest updates from Edgbaston below.
