Former England captain Michael Vaughan declared that the nation's formidable pace attack has already sown the seeds of doubt in the Australian batting line-up, following a breathtaking and brutal first day of the Ashes series at the Perth Stadium.
A Day of Dominance for England's Bowlers
After being dismissed for a modest 172 in their first innings, England's fortunes were dramatically reversed by a five-pronged pace assault. Captain Ben Stokes, playing his first match since a July shoulder injury, led from the front with a magnificent haul of five wickets for just 23 runs. His inspirational performance helped skittle Australia, who stumbled to 123 for nine at the close of play on a lively, challenging pitch.
The supporting cast was equally menacing. Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse each claimed two wickets, while Gus Atkinson proved unlucky not to join them on the scoresheet during a ferocious new-ball spell. The intensity was palpable, with Steve Smith weathering blows to his elbow and the fiery Mark Wood crashing a delivery into the helmet of Cameron Green.
Vaughan's Verdict: Psychological Scars Inflicted
Analysing the action for the BBC's Test Match Special, Vaughan was convinced the damage went beyond the scoreboard. He suggested the display was so intimidating that Australian selectors might already be contemplating changes.
"You need bowlers to get you out of trouble and England had an attack today where all five quick bowlers bowled with skill, pace and they were intimidating," Vaughan stated. "When you're a tailender and you're seeing someone who's incredibly talented like Cameron Green hit on the side of the grille... I would not want to face this attack on this pitch."
He expanded on the psychological impact, noting, "There was enough scars I saw from the way the England bowled to the Australian batters. Australia were hanging on, they really were on the ropes. England have opened up a little crack or two."
Starc's Heroics Overshadowed by Stokes' Return
The day, which featured a remarkable 19 wickets—the most on an Ashes first day since 1909—also saw a stellar performance from Australia's Mitchell Starc. The left-arm quick recorded a career-best seven for 58, striking in the very first over to remove Zak Crawley.
However, the narrative was ultimately stolen by the returning Ben Stokes. His fellow former England captain, Sir Alastair Cook, emphasised his crucial role on TNT Sports: "For England to win this series, (Stokes) has to be close to being the man of the series - he's that important... He balances the side, he delivers when other people might just be struggling."
This sentiment was echoed by former Australia coach Justin Langer, who experienced Stokes' match-winning brilliance at Headingley in 2019. "He is a freak," Langer told TNT. "If I could have one player in the world, (it would be Stokes)... he gave me the worst day of my cricket career and I think he's just a brilliant cricketer."
With the stage set for a thrilling continuation, England's pace cartel has sent a powerful message, suggesting this Ashes battle will be fought and won through sheer speed and aggression.
