A rare spectacle unfolded at Perth as the first Ashes Test concluded in just 847 balls, making it the second shortest Test in terms of balls bowled in Australia’s cricket history. The ICC (International Cricket Council) has awarded the pitch a “Very Good” rating, with match referee Ranjan Madugalle giving the highest evaluation under ICC’s four-tier pitch assessment system.
According to ICC guidelines, a “Very Good” rating signifies excellent carry of the ball, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce, meaning the contest between bat and ball remained competitive and entertaining despite the match finishing in just two days.
Pace bowlers dominated the first day. Australia’s Mitchell Starc claimed 7 wickets in the first innings alone, while England captain Joe Root took 5 wickets, and Jofra Archer delivered a strong performance. A total of 19 wickets fell on Day 1.
The pace dominance continued through the second day’s sessions. England collapsed for just 164 in their second innings against Starc and Scott Boland. However, Travis Head changed the course of the game with a magnificent 123 off 83 balls, guiding Australia to chase down a target of 205 runs in a single session.
More than 100,000 spectators attended the two-day spectacle. Cricket Australia Chief of Cricket James Allsop commented, “It was disappointing for those holding tickets for the third and fourth days, but the two days of exhilarating cricket have injected new life into the Ashes.”
Allsop added, “The ICC’s ‘Very Good’ rating confirms that the Perth pitch provided a fair contest between bat and ball. The dominance of pace bowlers and the thrilling contest meant the match ended in just two days. Spectators witnessed moments that will enhance cricket’s popularity and inspire young cricketers to pick up the bat and ball.”