In a breathtaking climax to the first Test, Mitchell Starc produced a devastating spell of fast bowling to secure a memorable victory for Australia over England at the Gabba. The left-arm paceman claimed six wickets for 80 runs, dismantling the English batting order and sealing a 1-0 series lead in the 2025 Ashes.
Starc's Relentless Assault Turns the Tide
With England beginning the final day on 98 for three, needing a further 291 runs for an improbable win, hopes of a defiant rearguard were quickly extinguished. Starc, armed with the second new ball, was virtually unplayable. He generated fearsome pace and movement, striking crucial blows at regular intervals to prevent any significant partnerships from developing.
His most telling contribution came in a blistering post-lunch spell where he removed the dangerous Ben Stokes and the well-set Jonny Bairstow in quick succession. Starc's final figures of six for 80 represented his best Ashes performance on home soil, a masterclass in aggressive, wicket-taking bowling when his team needed it most.
England's Resistance Crumbles Under Pressure
Despite a valiant effort from opener Zak Crawley, who top-scored with 73, England's batting lineup ultimately succumbed to the relentless pressure applied by the Australian attack. Captain Pat Cummins provided excellent support to Starc, chipping in with three vital wickets, while Nathan Lyon claimed the final scalp to wrap up the innings.
The tourists were eventually bowled out for 268, handing Australia a commanding victory by 120 runs. The result continues England's long winless streak at the Gabba, a venue where they have not triumphed since 1986. The defeat leaves Ben Stokes's side with a monumental task to fight back in the remainder of the five-Test series.
Series Implications and Looking Ahead
This emphatic win provides Australia with crucial momentum as the Ashes caravan moves to Adelaide for the second Test, a day-night fixture starting on December 12. The performance of Starc, in particular, answers questions about his role in the side and underlines his value as a premier strike bowler in all conditions.
For England, the search for answers begins immediately. Their batting, aside from Crawley's resistance, appeared fragile against high-quality pace. They must now regroup quickly to prevent Australia from building an unassailable lead in the series. The drama in Brisbane has set the stage for a compelling contest over the coming weeks, with all eyes now on how England respond to this early setback.
