Australia reached 126/3 at stumps on a rain-affected Day 1 of the fourth Test match against England, at the Sydney Cricket Ground. They largely dominated the 46.5 overs of play that were possible, despite England getting rid of the well-set Marcus Harris (38 in 109 balls) and Marnus Labuschagne (28 in 59) in the final hour to get themselves back into the game. James Anderson, Stuart Broad, and Mark Wood all looked threatening throughout the day.
Australia will resume Day 2 with two fresh batters, Steven Smith (6*) and Usman Khawaja (4*). Khawaja, playing his first Test match since 2019, did not seem comfortable in the closing stages on Day 1 under floodlights. The momentum is now with England, and they will look to restrict Australia under 250.
With no threat of a Travis Head onslaught this time, England may back themselves to pull one back. However, there is more rain predicted in the coming days in Sydney, which may reduce their chances of positive results. From Australia’s perspective, heavy rain might wash away their whitewash hopes as well.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Bank on Wood and Anderson to get more wickets.
- Expect Smith to get a fifty.
- Cam Green and Alex Carey may chip in if Australia lose a wicket or two early.