Inserted, Australia had a productive morning session notwithstanding the loss of their openers. Ben Stokes called right on an Old Trafford pitch that looks to be a decent batting strip, although there has been swing and seam movement at the disposal of the fast bowlers. England’s seamers weren’t quite on the button initially and were scratchy for most parts in the session, but managed to take out left handers Usman Khawaja and David Warner nonetheless.
Steve Smith fell on the other side of the break as Mark Wood trapped him in front. The umpire wasn’t convinced but a review by Ben Stokes sent the dangerman on his way.
Teams:
Australia (Playing XI): David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Cameron Green, Alex Carey(w), Pat Cummins(c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood
England (Playing XI): Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Moeen Ali, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes(c), Jonny Bairstow(w), Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Stuart Broad, James Anderson
Steve Smith… GONE! ❌
Mark Wood strikes after lunch and it's a big one! ☝️ #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/4KGeJdrXec
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 19, 2023