Australia and England produced one other nerve-wracking duel within the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston earlier this week. After selecting to bat first, England captain Ben Stokes declared the primary innings late on Day 1 at 393/8 with Joe Root nonetheless on the crease on 116. In reply, Usman Khawaja hit an excellent 141, however England bowlers pulled it again to present their aspect a slim first innings lead of seven runs. The hosts then aggregated 273 runs within the second innings, giving Australia a 281-run goal to win the primary Test.

Khawaja as soon as once more gave a robust basis to Australia within the chase, scoring 65, earlier than a middle-order collapse noticed the guests droop to 227/8.

With 54 runs wanted and simply two wickets in hand, Australia captain Pat Cummins put a robust rearguard, alongside Nathan Lyon, to take his crew throughout the ending line. Cummins hit an unbeaten 44 whereas Lyon placed on a defensive masterclass along with his 28-ball 16 not out.

As Cummins hit the winnings boundary, former England captain Alastair Cook had his fingers on his head within the commentary field.

Cook was visibly distraught after the defeat and was seen shaking his head in frustration.

‘An Ashes match for the ages’@jimmaxcricket calls an epic finale to the primary Test. #BBCCricket #Ashes pic.twitter.com/r0xdp8Rrjm

— Test Match Special (@bbctms) June 20, 2023

After the match, ICC fined Australia and England 50 p.c of their match charges on Wednesday for gradual over charges.

Cricket’s governing physique mentioned each groups had additionally been docked two World Test Championship factors apiece for gradual play.

“Captains Pat Cummins and Ben Stokes pled guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanctions, so there was no need for formal hearings,” the ICC mentioned in an announcement.

The second Ashes Test might be performed at Lords from June 28.

(With AFP Inputs)