Harry Brook slams fifty in maiden Ashes innings Down Under
21 Nov 2025

Amid challenging circumstances, Harry Brook played a 52-run knock on the opening day of the opening Ashes Test at Perth's Optus Stadium.

This was his maiden Test innings Down Under, and the England star showcased immense character.

Notably, a seven-wicket haul from Mitchell Starc meant England were folded for 172 batting first.

The total would have been even more paltry had Brook not stepped up.

Here we look at his performance.

A vital knock from Brook's blade
Knock

Starc struck thrice in the first hour as England were reduced to 39/3 when Brook, the team's new vice-captain in Tests, arrived to bat.

He joined forces with Ollie Pope (46), as the two batters tried to play a rescue act with a 55-run stand.

Brook further added 45 runs in no time with Jamie Smith, who made a quick-fire 33 off 22 balls.

The former eventually went down as the sixth batter.

Brook's dismissal and Australia's review
Dismissal details

Brendan Doggett, making his Test debut, claimed his first wicket by forcing Brook into an awkward tangle with a short ball aimed at his ribs.

Despite trying to sway out of the line, Brook couldn't get his hands clear.

The ball brushed the top glove of his left hand on its way through to Alex Carey.

Steve Smith and Carey appealed immediately, but umpire Nitin Menon showed no interest in the appeal.

The RTS technology later confirmed a clear spike.

14th fifty in Test cricket
Career

Brook scored 52 off just 61 balls with the help of five fours and a maximum.

Playing his 31st Test, Brook has raced to 2,872 runs at an average of 57.44, as per ESPNcricinfo. His strike rate is a stunning 87.48.

Brook smashed his 14th fifty in Tests. He also owns 10 tons.

This was his fifth fifty across 10 Ashes innings, as he has completed 415 runs against Australia at 41.50.

England's innings and Starc's performance
Bowling brilliance

England were eventually bowled out for 172 after lunch, with Starc producing a spell of sustained, hostile fast bowling to finish with 7/58.

The left-armer claimed his 17th Test five-wicket haul, his fifth in the Ashes.

Starc's relentless pace—rarely dipping below 140kph—and clever use of the three-quarter seam kept England on their toes throughout the morning session.

While Doggett struck twice on debut, the other wicket went to Cameron Green.