Who Bowled the First Ball of the Ashes Series: Burns or Starc?

The England cricket team's 2021-22 Ashes series began with a shocking moment as opener Rory Burns was bowled out on the very first ball by Australia's Mitchell Starc. This unexpected start at the Gabba in Brisbane set a tense tone for the series, highlighting the challenges England faced against a formidable Australian side.

Last updated: 15 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Ashes series is crucial for both teams, with Australia seeking to maintain their dominance while England aims for redemption after previous losses. The early dismissal of Burns raises concerns about England's batting line-up and their ability to handle pressure in crucial matches. This match not only has implications for the series but also for the future of several players involved.

Key takeaways

Rory Burns' dismissal on the first ball highlights England's batting vulnerabilities.
Mitchell Starc's performance sets a competitive tone for the Australian bowling attack.
The outcome of this series could significantly impact player selections moving forward.

Timeline: how we got here

The Ashes series has a long-standing tradition, with the current series commencing on 8 December 2021. Key milestones leading up to this series include:

September 2021: England announces its squad for the Ashes series.
December 2021: The first Test match begins at Gabba, Brisbane.
December 2021: Rory Burns is dismissed first ball by Mitchell Starc.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Rory Burns' dismissal on the first ball is a significant talking point, adding pressure on England's batting order right from the outset. This moment could potentially define the series' narrative.

What was already established

The Ashes series has historically been an intense rivalry between England and Australia, with Australia often having the upper hand on home soil. The pressure on England to perform well in this series has been mounting, particularly after their struggles in previous series.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Ashes series garners significant attention in the UK, with viewership impacting local businesses, particularly pubs and sports venues that often show the matches. The excitement around the series can boost local economies, especially if England performs well.

Businesses and jobs

For sports-related businesses, the Ashes is a peak time for promotions and increased sales of merchandise. Employment in these sectors may see a temporary upswing during the series, especially in hospitality and retail.

Policy and regulation

The series also attracts attention from policymakers who may consider the cultural significance of cricket and its impact on community cohesion and national pride. Discussions around funding for grassroots sports may arise, particularly if England's performance captures public interest.

Numbers that matter

2021: The year of the latest Ashes series, continuing a long-standing cricket tradition.
10: The number of Ashes series won by Australia since 2000, showcasing their dominance.
1: The first ball dismissal of Rory Burns, marking a dramatic start to the series.
5: The number of Test matches scheduled in the series, each critical for both teams.

Definitions and jargon buster

Ashes: A Test cricket series played between England and Australia, symbolising one of the greatest rivalries in sport.
Test Match: A format of cricket with matches lasting up to five days, testing the skill and endurance of teams.
Bowled: When the ball hits the stumps and dislodges the bails, resulting in a batsman being dismissed.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, England must regroup and find ways to strengthen their batting lineup. Key players will need to step up to avoid further early collapses.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the Ashes, England's performance will likely influence selections for upcoming international series and potential changes in coaching staff. Assessments will be made regarding players' suitability for the team's long-term strategy.

Signals to watch

Performance of key batsmen in subsequent matches.
Changes in team management or coaching staff based on the series' outcomes.
Public and media response to England's performance, influencing future funding and support for cricket initiatives.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage with local cricket clubs to support grassroots sports.
Follow match updates and analyses to understand team dynamics.
Watch live broadcasts to stay connected with the Ashes action.

Don’t

Underestimate the significance of early dismissals in Test matches.
Ignore the impact of public sentiment on team performance.
Dismiss the importance of player form leading into crucial matches.

Checklist

Stay updated with player statistics and performances.
Engage with cricket communities online for discussions and insights.
Plan viewing schedules around match timings.
Consider local venues for watching matches with friends and family.
Support initiatives promoting youth participation in cricket.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the Ashes series holds significant importance, uncertainties remain regarding player fitness and form, which can change rapidly. Additionally, the impact of external factors, such as weather conditions and fan attendance, may also influence match outcomes and subsequent performances.

Bottom line

Rory Burns' dismissal on the first ball serves as a stark reminder of the pressures faced by the England cricket team in the Ashes series. As the series unfolds, both teams will need to adapt and respond to the evolving dynamics of Test cricket, with significant implications for their reputations and futures. The stakes are high, and the cricketing world is watching closely.

FAQs

Why is Rory Burns' dismissal significant?

Rory Burns' dismissal on the first ball sets a negative tone for England's batting, highlighting their vulnerabilities under pressure in the Ashes series.

What are the implications of the Ashes series for England?

The Ashes series is crucial for England's cricketing reputation and can influence team selections and management decisions based on performance.

How does the Ashes impact local businesses in the UK?

The Ashes attract significant viewership, boosting local businesses such as pubs and sports venues, especially during key matches.