Australia turned ‘Fortress Edgbaston’ into a Lyon’s den as they drew first blood in the Ashes with a thumping 251-run victory over England in the opening Test.
The hosts arrived on day five looking to recreate the rearguard that saw them escape from Cardiff with a draw in the first match of the 2009 series but instead found themselves knocked over for 146, with Nathan Lyon spinning his way to six wickets.
England had not lost a Test at their Birmingham stronghold since 2008 and toasted victory in each of their previous 11 matches here across all formats. Australia, meanwhile, had lost 15 successive games on Warwickshire’s turf, dating all the way back to 2001.
But, just three weeks on from a historic World Cup success, the second part of English cricket’s golden summer got off to a dreadful start as they were rolled over well before tea.
Tweet of the day
Aussies too good this Test .. They look very very well coached & prepared for these conditions .. Unless England find lateral movement this could be a long 6 weeks .. #OnOn #Ashes
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) August 5, 2019
Snap shot
2008 – England’s eight-match unbeaten streak in Tests at Edgbaston has come to an end; last losing there in 2008 (v South Africa). Fortress. #Ashes pic.twitter.com/6ZxEO7aMiR
— OptaJim (@OptaJim) August 5, 2019
England had won their last 11 matches in all formats at the Birmingham venue, the latest of which came when they walloped Australia by seven wickets in the World Cup semi-final last month. Australia, meanwhile, claimed their first win here since 2001 – which was also the last time they won the urn on English soil.
Wilson woe
Same old Aussies, always winning
An annoying buzz
Lyon’s den
What’s next
August 14: England v Australia, day one of the second Ashes Test, Lord’s
