England asserted early dominance on the opening day of the Sydney Test, posting a commanding 211 for 3 against Australia before adverse weather conditions brought an early end to play. Experienced batsman Joe Root led the charge with an unbeaten 72, supported by a fluent 78 from Harry Brook, placing England in a strong position in the fifth and final match of the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series. Ashes 5th Test 2025-26: England and Australia Players Form Guard of Honour for Bondi Attack Heroes.

Early Challenges and Resilience

Having won the toss and elected to bat on a pitch offering some early movement, England faced an immediate challenge. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett navigated the initial overs cautiously, building a solid 35-run partnership. However, Australia's ace Mitchell Starc broke through, dismissing Duckett for 27, followed shortly by Michael Neser claiming Crawley for 16. Soon, Jacod Bethell, too, departed off Scott Boland's bowling, leaving England at 57 for 3, requiring consolidation.

Root and Brook Forge Crucial Partnership

The arrival of Harry Brook at the crease, alongside the in-form Joe Root, shifted the momentum firmly in England's favour. The pair demonstrated a blend of watchful defence and aggressive stroke play, frustrating the Australian bowling attack. They compiled an impressive 154-run partnership for the fourth wicket, effectively blunting Australia's charge.

Brook continued his excellent form, reaching his half-century with a series of well-timed boundaries. His innings of 78 included six fours and one six, showcasing his growing confidence at the Test level. Root, meanwhile, played a more measured but equally effective innings, steadily accumulating runs and guiding the partnership.

Australia's Bowling Effort

Australia's bowlers, after initial success, toiled hard on a surface that flattened out as the day progressed. Pacers managed to pick wickets early on, but the lack of a spinner at times was quite evident. Ashes 5th Test 2025-26: Joe Root, Harry Brook Half-Centuries Put England in Commanding Position at Tea on Day 1.

Weather Forces Early Close

With England at 211 for 3 with Brook and Root well-set on 78 and 72, respectively, drizzle began to fall, leading to an initial stoppage. The rain intensified, and with the light deteriorating, the umpires decided to call off play after 45 overs of play on Day 1. This interruption cut short a day that largely belonged to the visitors, leaving them with an excellent platform for day two.

Outlook for Day Two

England will resume on day two with Root and Brook eyeing a century and Ben Stokes yet to bat, aiming to build a substantial first-innings total. Australia, meanwhile, will be keen to make early breakthroughs and prevent England from running away with the game. The weather forecast for tomorrow remains a point of interest, potentially influencing the pace of play. Australia currently holds a 3-1 lead in the five-match series, and England is eager to finish the tour on a high.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 04, 2026 12:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).