After the chaos of Perth and the pink-ball drama in Brisbane, Adelaide Oval offered a return to more traditional Test cricket conditions. Australia, sent in to bat after Pat Cummins won the toss on a sweltering 35°C day, closed at 326 for eight from 83 overs — a total built on resilience but arguably short of what the hosts would have hoped for after batting first.
England, trailing 2–0 in the series and under pressure, emerged with credit despite losing a crucial toss. Ben Stokes’ bowlers toiled patiently in the heat, maintaining discipline and pressure for long periods. Their standout performer was Archer, who responded emphatically to recent criticism with figures of three for 29 from 16 overs. Operating at an average speed of 88mph (142km/h), Archer not only controlled the run rate but also provided England with genuine menace, only showing signs of fatigue during a late spell with the second new ball.
Archer set the tone early by bouncing out Jake Weatherald, and after lunch he struck decisively, removing both Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green within three deliveries. Green’s dismissal for a duck — a tentative chip to midwicket — served as a stark reminder of cricket’s unforgiving nature, coming less than a day after the all-rounder secured a lucrative £1.5m (Am) Indian Premier League contract.
Australia briefly looked vulnerable when they slipped to 94 for four, but Carey ensured the innings did not unravel. Fresh from an outstanding performance behind the stumps in Brisbane, the 34-year-old wicketkeeper-batter counterattacked with authority, compiling a vital 106 from 143 balls. His innings reached its emotional peak late in the afternoon when he drove Stokes through the covers for three, prompting a loud ovation from an appreciative Adelaide crowd.
Usman Khawaja provided further stability with a determined 82, digging in during testing periods and forming crucial partnerships that allowed Australia to rebuild. While the home side managed to put runs on the board, England’s persistence ensured the balance remained delicate heading into day two.
As stumps were drawn, Australia held a narrow edge, but England’s disciplined bowling — spearheaded by Archer — suggested the match remains wide open. With the series hanging in the balance, Carey’s century may yet prove pivotal, both in shaping the Test and in reinforcing Australia’s depth under pressure.
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