The ongoing Ashes Test at Perth has already produced a series of remarkable statistics as England seized control after a chaotic start for both sides. On the second day, Australia were bowled out for a mere 132 runs, adding just nine more in the early hours through a brief Nathan Lyon–Brendan Doggett partnership before succumbing to England’s relentless attack. The visitors required only 38 deliveries on Saturday morning to claim the final wicket and secure a 40-run first-innings lead.
England themselves had been dismissed for 172 on the opening day, creating a situation rarely seen in modern Test cricket. In fact, the last occasion when both sides failed to surpass 200 runs in the first innings of an Ashes Test was during the 1990–91 series at the Gabba—an indication of just how unusual such low-scoring encounters have become.
Australia’s total of 132 now stands as their second-lowest first-innings score at home in the 21st century, with only their 98-run collapse in 2010–11 being worse.
Ben Stokes’ Historic Performance
England captain Ben Stokes delivered a masterclass with the ball, claiming figures of 5 for 23. His performance is now officially the best by an English captain on Australian soil in Ashes history, highlighting not only his exceptional bowling but also his inspirational leadership in high-pressure conditions.
Record-Breaking Overs
The combined first innings of both sides lasted just 78.1 overs, making it the second-shortest in Ashes history. Only the 1902 Melbourne Test, in which the opening innings concluded in 47.5 overs, was quicker—a remarkable statistical anomaly in modern cricket.
With a first-innings lead secured, England entered their second innings with confidence, looking to stretch their advantage and place Australia firmly on the back foot. The match so far has been a reminder that even in an era of high-scoring contests, Test cricket can still produce low-scoring thrills reminiscent of a bygone era.