Ashes 2025-26 : Mitchell Starc plucks a screamer to remove Zak Crawley for another duck on Day 2 of the Perth Test

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Australia and England kicked off the highly anticipated 2025-26 Ashes series with the 1st Test at Perth, setting the stage for another chapter in their historic rivalry. The opening match, which began on November 21, has already witnessed breathtaking moments and dramatic shifts in momentum, keeping cricket enthusiasts glued to their screens. Heading into Day 2, Australia found themselves trailing after a determined English showing, and the atmosphere at Perth was palpable as fans waited to see which side would seize the upper hand.

Day 2 delivered an extraordinary highlight soon after the resumption of play when Mitchell Starc produced an incredible reflex catch, sending Zak Crawley back to the pavilion for a duck — for the second time in the match. Starc, charging in with the ball, pitched it up full outside off, prompting Crawley to drive down the ground. What followed was pure athletic brilliance: Starc, whose momentum was heading away from the ball, somehow managed to stretch out his left hand at the last moment during his follow through and pluck the ball out of thin air, inches above the turf.

The drama intensified as the third umpire paused to review whether Starc’s fingers were underneath the ball at the time of contact. The slow-motion replays revealed a clean catch, confirming Crawley’s dismissal for a pair (0 in both innings). England, suddenly 0-1 in their second innings, felt the sting of Starc’s skill and the psychological impact of that wicket, as Perth reverberated with applause for Australia’s speedster. Starc’s figures at that point reflected his dominance: 1 wicket for just 13 runs in 5 overs, continuing his impact from a first innings haul of 7 wickets for 58 runs.

WHAT A RIDICULOUS TAKE! Mitchell Starc sends Zak Crawley off for a pair! #Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2025

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Ben Stokes rescues England against Australia after Mitchell Starc’s fiery spell as 19 wickets fall on Day 1 of Perth Test

Despite the early setback, England began to build on their slender lead, showcasing grit and composure in the face of Australian pressure. At lunch on Day 2, England had moved to 59/1 after 15 overs, with opener Ben Duckett unbeaten on 28 and Ollie Pope holding steady with 24. The pair weathered disciplined bowling from Starc, Scott Boland, and Brendan Doggett, with Australia operating in tidy channels but struggling to consistently threaten.

England’s first innings had set the tone for the contest, posting a swift 172 from 32.5 overs, powered by attacking contributions from Harry Brook (52) and Jamie Smith (33). Australia’s reply faltered against disciplined seam and swing, particularly from Ben Stokes, who snared five wickets as the home side collapsed to 132 all out.

As England’s lead grew to 99 runs by lunch, the game’s narrative shifted towards strategic batting and scoreboard pressure. Australia’s bowlers, led by Starc, maintained relentless pace and intent but lacked penetration after the early wicket. With Duckett and Pope guiding England, and a strong batting lineup still in reserve, the visitors walked off with renewed optimism and the chance to dictate terms in the afternoon session.

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Fans go gaga as Mitchell Starc rips through England with seven-wickets on Day 1 of Perth Test