Second test hangs in the balance after Root brilliance

Photo courtesy of Charlie Fisher

An even day I would say…

England will be frustrated to have not truly cashed in after the partnership between Crawley and Root. Stokes’ dismissal was really damaging and the inexcusable dash from Brook was not what the situation required.

After such a brainless display at Perth, Stokes and McCullum would have been keen to set things right in the batting department. The jury is still out on whether Bazball can be more than just one-dimensional. Perhaps we could call the desired style Bazball with Brains – looking to take the positive option, but adjusting the play for the situation of the game and the percentage of success of the shot given the field/ lateral movement/ bounce etc…

An alternative name for the optimum approach could be The Joe Root method.

Simply mesmeric again - an away Ashes century was inevitable - delivered in his trademark way with style, grace and elegance. Respecting the good ball, looking busy to hit gaps and manipulate the field and then cashing in at the end of the day with more aggression as the Aussie bowlers tired.

From an Aussie angle, they will have mixed emotions regarding the day. While they will be disappointed to have let England recover from 5-2 and have a large 10th wicket partnership, they will be just as delighted with the way they fought back in the middle overs.

So - who is on top after day 1? Has the brilliance of Joe Root made it England’s day? Or has Starc once again ensured Australia keep England below par?