Day 1 of the Australia vs England, 1st Test at Perth Stadium kicked off the 2025–26 Ashes series with a bang. With a staggering 19 wickets tumbling in just 71.5 overs, the match was a rollercoaster right from the first session. What many thought would be a calm opening day quickly morphed into a fast-paced showdown as both teams grappled with a lively pitch in Perth. Let’s dive into the action and highlight every wicket that kept the fans on the edge of their seats. Watch here: Here's every single one of the NINETEEN wickets to fall on Day 1 at Optus Stadium ... in just 71.5 overs 🤯#Ashes pic.twitter.com/d8QFJEmCxe — 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 21, 2025 The first day in Perth set the stage for a thrilling Ashes series, but beyond the immediate highlights, it also revealed how both teams adapted to the changing conditions and faced crucial pressure moments. The pitch was lively, encouraging seam movement from the get-go, but it was the discipline and intent of the fast bowlers that truly defined the match. Also Read | Will Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah Skip IND vs SA ODIs for T20 WC 2026 Prep? Starc’s Seven-Wicket Impact Mitchell Starc, stepping up in the absence of Cummins and Hazlewood, led the Australian attack with a spell focused on control rather than sheer speed. His early breakthrough set the tone, and his knack for keeping England guessing earned him a memorable seven-wicket haul, giving the hosts a solid early advantage. However, the tide turned when England took to the field. Jofra Archer struck early, dismissing Australia’s debutant right away, signaling England’s intent to bounce back after a modest batting performance. Their bowling attack emphasized accuracy and fuller lengths, stringing together maidens that forced Australia into errors. Ben Stokes then took the reins, employing subtle variations and unwavering precision to dismantle the middle order. His five wickets weren’t just a display of aggression; they were part of a meticulously crafted spell that shifted the momentum firmly in England’s favor. By the end of the day, the scoreboard told a story that went beyond just a flurry of wickets. It reflected a contest where each session had its own narrative, showcasing the resilience of both teams under pressure. With England surprisingly ahead at stumps, the series kicked off with a vivid reminder of how quickly Test cricket can change and the drama that’s still to come.