Historic Rivalry Reignites After 844 Days
After 844 days of anticipation, cricket's greatest rivalry exploded back to life as 51,531 fervent fans packed Optus Stadium for the opening day of the most anticipated Ashes series in 143 years. From English villages to Perth suburbs, supporters traveled globally to witness history unfold in Western Australia.
Rollercoaster Day Sees Wickets Tumble
The opening day delivered pure cricketing chaos, mirroring last year's clash with India as 17 wickets fell in a dramatic session. England were bowled out for 172, while Australia stumbled to 8-121 just before stumps, setting up a tantalizing continuation of this historic contest.
Hours before the first ball, a noisy stampede of lucky ticket holders flooded the stadium walkways, creating an electric atmosphere that only a century-old rivalry could generate. The temperature climbed to a barmy 29C, but nothing matched the heat generated by the passionate crowds.
Fans Create Spectacular Stadium Atmosphere
Alex Marsden, flanked by his 'Cottesloe Crew,' summed up the local excitement: "It's not often you get iconic sport like this close to home so we're not going to let it pass us by." The group made a strategic fashion choice, donning Swan Draught shirts to avoid antagonizing the visiting English supporters.
"We've heard the Barmy Army can get a bit full on when they're on the losing side—not real good losers—so we thought we better be a bit inconspicuous," Marsden explained. "Green and gold—you're just showing it off—Swanny Draught though, not so much."
The England tourists were easily identifiable with their St George's Cross flags, many carefully customized with hometown club slogans. Despite the early hour, many clutched mid-strength beer cans while their shirts already stuck to their backs in the growing heat.
The famous Barmy Army created a striking sea of white and red, filling entire sections of the stands with their trumpets and face paint. Their enthusiasm remained strong until England's batting collapse in the early afternoon, when Australian supporters truly found their voice.
Aussie James Thornton observed: "They're a bloody noisy bunch I'll give 'em that—never heard a side cheer so much when they're falling apart."
For some families, the match created friendly divisions. Father and son Paul and Harrison Steele admitted the result would likely split loyalties. "He (my son) was born here and unfortunately for him—he supports the Australians," Mr Steele said. "It'll be a good weekend out for me but Harrison might be a bit upset with the result."
England fan Jack Morris captured the unique atmosphere: "This is my first time coming to Perth and it is beautiful—what a place to hold the Ashes. It's like being on tour with 50,000 mates but half of them supporting the wrong team."
As the sun set on an unforgettable opening day, both teams faced a crucial second day, with the match perfectly poised and the passionate crowds ready to return for more Ashes drama.
