England's veteran batsman Joe Root delivered a masterful response to pre-series taunts from the Australian media, scoring a magnificent unbeaten century on the opening day of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane.
A Cheeky Backtrack from Down Under
Prior to the series, The West Australian newspaper launched a series of personal barbs at the England star, labelling him 'Average Joe' and using a headline with a sexual connotation, 'Dud Root Down Under'. The criticism formed part of a broader media onslaught against the touring side since their arrival in Australia.
However, after Root marched to his 40th Test century and his first in an Ashes match on Australian soil—a feat 12 years in the making—the publication was forced into a humbling, if characteristically cheeky, retreat. Its front-page headline the following day read: 'He's Not A Bad Root After All', repurposing the earlier innuendo as a backhanded compliment.
Stokes' Defence and a Stellar Batting Display
England captain Ben Stokes had previously expressed his disappointment at the treatment of his teammate, stating last month he was 'a bit gutted when they turned their attention over to Rooty'. The host broadcaster for the Ashes in England, TNT Sports, also joined the fray, posting a modified version of the original newspaper front page with the headline 'Not So Average Joe' alongside Root's impressive career statistics.
On the field at The Gabba, Root's unbeaten 135 guided England to a commanding position of 9-325 at stumps, a remarkable recovery after they lost two wickets in the first three overs with both Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope dismissed for ducks. A crucial 76 from Zak Crawley provided vital support in the partnership that steadied the innings.
Bowling Records and Potential Penalties
For Australia, paceman Mitchell Starc was again the standout, claiming another six-wicket haul. In doing so, he surpassed Pakistan legend Wasim Akram to become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test history. The home side now faces potential sanctions, however, after bowling only 74 overs in the day. According to regulations, they must take the final England wicket before the 80th over to avoid fines and Test Championship penalty points.
This dramatic first day in Brisbane has not only shifted momentum in the Test but has emphatically answered the pre-series doubts about one of England's greatest modern batsmen, turning media ridicule into respectful, if reluctant, acknowledgment.
