England's decision to bowl first in the day-night Ashes Test in Adelaide looked questionable for much of the first day, but a spectacular catch from debutant Craig Overton to remove Australia captain Steve Smith gave the tourists a late boost. Australia closed on 209 for four after 81 overs, with Smith's dismissal for 40 providing a crucial breakthrough.
Overton, the first Devon-born player to represent England since Chris Read in 2007, replaced the injured Jake Ball. His first Test wicket came in spectacular fashion when he induced an edge from Smith, then dived full-length to his left to hold a brilliant catch. The dismissal ended a stubborn partnership and gave England hope after a difficult day in the field.
Earlier, England had struggled to make inroads as openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft added 53 before a mix-up led to Bancroft's run out. Warner fell for 47, edging Chris Woakes to Jos Buttler, but Usman Khawaja's 53 kept Australia in control. England's bowlers were guilty of bowling too short early on, and the pink ball offered little swing in the cold, windy conditions.
Joe Root's decision to insert Australia was a bold one, given England's record in day-night Tests here. However, the pitch had more grass than usual, and Australia have won both previous day-night matches in Adelaide batting second. Despite the eventual scoreline, England will take heart from Overton's heroics and the late wicket of Smith, who had looked set to frustrate them further.
