In England’s Ashes warm-up game, Ollie Pope scored a century, while Joe Root and Harry Brook struggled, potentially in their final innings before the first Test.
Ben Duckett made 92 and Zak Crawley 82, putting together an opening partnership of 182. On the second day, Pope and captain Ben Stokes shared 137 for the fifth wicket.
In between these partnerships, England lost four wickets for just 16 runs, with both Root and Brook dismissed cheaply. Australian media focused on Root’s continued struggle to score a Test century in Australia. Brook’s innings was disappointing, attempting risky T20-style shots early in his stay at the crease and falling for 2.
Pope’s measured century has secured his spot for the first Ashes Test on 21 November. Stokes was patient, scoring 77 after almost four months out with a shoulder injury.
Mark Wood suffered left hamstring tightness and is awaiting scan results. Lilac Hill’s placid pitch offered little challenge compared to what England will face at Optus Stadium.
Matthew Potts impressed with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 66 runs, showing he remains a valuable option in England’s seam attack despite being the lowest-ranked seamer in the Ashes squad.
Duckett should have been dismissed early but went on to form a strong opening partnership with Crawley. Pope and Stokes took advantage of the opportunity for match practice, showcasing England’s depth and readiness ahead of the first Test.
In England’s Ashes warm-up match in Perth, Ollie Pope scored a century, while much of the rest of the top order spent valuable time in the middle. However, Joe Root and Harry Brook failed to make an impact, potentially marking their last innings before the first Ashes Test.
Ben Duckett made 92 and Zak Crawley 82, forming a strong opening partnership of 182 runs. On the second day, Pope and captain Ben Stokes shared 137 for the fifth wicket, consolidating the innings after a mini-collapse where England lost four wickets for just 16 runs. Root and Brook were both dismissed cheaply, raising concerns about form heading into the first Test.
Root’s dismissal to Matthew Potts sparked discussion in the Australian media regarding his lack of a Test century in the country. Brook’s innings was disappointing; in the first 15 balls, he attempted two risky T20-style scoops and fell shortly after.
Pope’s century was measured and patient, securing his place for the first Ashes Test on 21 November. Stokes scored 77, gradually settling after almost four months out due to a shoulder injury.
Mark Wood suffered left hamstring tightness and is awaiting a scan. The Lilac Hill pitch was placid, giving little clue about the challenges at Optus Stadium, making these warm-up innings valuable.
Matthew Potts, though playing for the Lions, impressed with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 66 runs, the best of England’s seamers. His performance increases his chances of Test selection, especially with Wood’s fitness in doubt.
Duckett and Crawley’s opening stand set a strong platform, while Pope and Stokes showcased calm, match-ready innings. These performances indicate that England’s batting depth and adaptability are ready for the Ashes, with seasoned players stepping up when needed.