The third Ashes Test in Adelaide began with high drama and a crucial century, as Australia's Alex Carey produced a masterful 106 to steer his side to a total of 326 for eight on the opening day. England's bowlers, led by the impressive Jofra Archer, fought hard to keep the series alive, but Carey's resilience ensured the hosts finished Wednesday in a strong position.
Emotional Start and Smith's Shock Absence
The day commenced with a poignant minute's silence for the victims of the Bondi terror attack, followed by a moving rendition of 'True Blue' by folk singer John Williamson. The sombre mood was compounded by the last-minute withdrawal of Steve Smith, who was ruled out due to a vestibular issue causing nausea and dizziness.
This unexpected development handed a dramatic recall to Usman Khawaja, who had seemingly been omitted for the final time just 24 hours earlier. The 38-year-old, a day from his 39th birthday, seized his lifeline with a gritty 82 from number four, providing vital backbone to the Australian innings.
Archer's Fire Meets Carey's Resolve
England, urged by captain Ben Stokes to "scrap like dogs" after two heavy defeats, started purposefully. Jofra Archer was the standout performer, delivering a miserly and hostile spell to finish with exceptional figures of 3 for 29. He removed Jake Weatherald early and then struck a decisive double blow after lunch, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green in the space of three balls to leave Australia reeling at 94 for four.
This brought Carey to the crease, and the wicketkeeper-batsman played an innings of immense character. Arriving at a critical juncture, he built partnerships worth 91 with Khawaja, 59 with Josh Inglis, and 50 with Mitchell Starc to wrest back the initiative. Carey survived a major scare on 72 when a caught-behind appeal off Josh Tongue went to DRS; the 'Snickometer' showed a spike but its timing was deemed inconclusive, and the decision went in the batsman's favour, much to England's frustration.
England's Mixed Fortunes in the Field
While Archer excelled, England's other bowlers experienced fluctuating fortunes. Brydon Carse was expensive but claimed the wicket of Travis Head, thanks to a spectacular one-handed catch by Zak Crawley. However, the tourists missed a key chance to dismiss Khawaja on just five when Harry Brook dropped a straightforward edge in the slips.
Carey progressed steadily to his third Test century and his first in the Ashes, hitting the day's only six off Will Jacks. He eventually fell for 106, top-edging Jacks to the keeper. Tongue and Carse struck late blows to remove Inglis and Pat Cummins respectively, but the day undoubtedly belonged to Australia's resilient lower order, anchored by their composed wicketkeeper.
