Test Match Special The Ashes: England roar back on extraordinary opening day
Nov 21, 2025
Michael Vaughan, a former England captain and cricket analyst, shares tactical insights on England's impressive bowling comeback against Australia. He discusses the effectiveness of a five-man pace attack and debates pitch conditions. Comedic statistician Andy Zaltzman adds humor with a 'stat attack,' highlighting bizarre records from the day, including 19 wickets falling. The crew also speculates on potential changes for Australia as they navigate the match’s twists and turns.
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Day One Momentum Swings Wildly
- The first day produced 19 wickets and swung momentum wildly between the teams.
- England closed with a 49-run lead and Australia nine down, showing cricket can flip multiple times in a day.
Pace Battery Turned The Game
- England's five-man pace attack rescued them after a poor batting collapse.
- All five quicks bowled with skill, pace and intimidation to change the game's course.
Give Bowlers A Proper Rest
- England must rest bowlers after an intense day to maintain pace and intensity later in the match.
- Use tomorrow's batting session to preserve the seamers and nail the match-winning moment.