In a nail-biting encounter at Edgbaston, Australia emerged victorious with a two-wicket win over England in the first Ashes Test of the 2023 series. The match witnessed a stunning rearguard innings by skipper Pat Cummins, who remained unbeaten on 44, and a crucial 55-run partnership for the ninth wicket with Nathan Lyon (16 not out).
Chasing a target of 218 in the fourth innings, Australia found themselves in trouble after losing Alex Carey for 20 with the score at 227/8. However, Cummins displayed exceptional composure and led from the front to guide his team to a memorable victory in the Birmingham twilight.
The opening match of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship concluded in dramatic fashion as Cummins showcased his batting prowess to steer Australia closer to reclaiming the coveted Ashes urn on English soil.
England, who declared their first innings at 393/8 and were bowled out for 272 in the second innings, had their hopes high when rain delayed the start of the day's play. Needing only two wickets with Australia requiring 54 runs, the hosts sensed an opportunity to turn the tide in their favor.
However, Cummins and Lyon formed an unyielding partnership for the ninth wicket, frustrating England's efforts and propelling Australia to a winning start in their quest for Ashes glory in England.
When Cummins took to the crease, England appeared to be the favorites. Yet, the skipper, alongside Alex Carey, contributed 18 crucial runs and then played a pivotal role in the match-winning stand with Lyon, intensifying the thrilling contest.
Ultimately, it was Cummins who struck the winning runs, concluding the match with an unbeaten 44, as Lyon joined him with an undefeated 16, sealing Australia's triumph.
Persistent rain throughout the day resulted in the first session being washed out, compressing the day's play. When the action finally commenced in the afternoon, Australia resumed at 107/3, with all outcomes still within reach.
In their pursuit of 174 runs for victory, Usman Khawaja and Scott Boland provided a stern challenge for England, frustrating their bowlers. However, Stuart Broad managed to induce an edge from the nightwatchman, breaking the partnership. Boland's contribution of 20 runs marked his highest Test score to date.
Australia showcased patience as Travis Head weathered a spell of aggressive short-pitched bowling. Yet, Moeen Ali, battling a finger injury, produced a brilliant delivery that left Head bewildered, resulting in a sharp catch by Joe Root at first slip.
With five wickets down, Australia appeared to be in a promising position at tea. However, England found a glimmer of hope when Ollie Robinson dismissed Cameron Green after a determined 66-ball innings of 28.
Usman Khawaja's resolute knock of 65 off 197 deliveries also came to an end when England captain Stokes deceived him with a slower ball, leading to his dismissal.
England delayed taking the new ball, a decision that proved fruitful when part-time spinner Joe Root claimed a sharp caught and bowled opportunity to remove Alex Carey for 20, leaving Australia with 54 runs still needed for victory.
Tensions heightened as England deployed various strategies to secure the remaining wickets. However, Cummins and Lyon demonstrated nerves of steel, successfully navigating the pressure and securing a historic triumph for Australia.
With this win, Australia takes a 1-0 lead in the series with four Tests remaining. The action will now shift to Lord's, where the second Test is scheduled to commence next Wednesday.
Brief scores: England 393/8d & 273 lost to Australia 286 & 282/8 in 92.3 overs (Usman Khawaja 65, David Warner 36, Pat Cummins 44 not out; Stuart Broad 3-64, Ollie Robinson 2-43) by two wickets.