The first Ashes Test ended amidst more controversy on Sunday after Australia’s thrilling run chase fell 14 short of England’s total of 311.
Australia struggled to 231-9 until Brad Haddin (71) and James Pattinson (25 not out) revived the visitors’ chances of an upset victory to score 65 runs from 99 deliveries in a last wicket partnership. The duo came dangerously close to toppling England’s total until the third umpire dismissed Haddin on a caught behind decision to a Jimmy Anderson ball.
Despite the field umpires decision of not out, Hot Spot detected the faintest of edges from Haddin’s bat, dismissing the wicketkeeper and giving England the win. The decision will surely leave more than a few Australian fans bitter about the result- DRS hurt the Aussies on multiple occasions throughout the match and the Haddin footage could have as easily been declared inconclusive.
The result was a heartbreaking loss for Australia, but the win became England’s first 1-0 Ashes lead since 1997 and players celebrated accordingly when the third umpire’s decision came down.
The decision to play Haddin ahead of promising youngster Matthew Wade paid dividends for new coach Darren Lehmann. The 35-year-old lost his place in the side for the good part of a year, but was given a reprieve by Lehmann thanks to his wealth of playing experience over Wade.
The first Test also revealed Australia’s newest cricketing hero- Ashton Agar. The 19-year-old burst onto the scene with an incredible 98, saving Australia’s first innings at the crease and did enough with the ball to suggest the youngster will be a big part of Australia’s next generation of cricket stars.
Anderson bowled 5-73 in the second innings, claiming 10 wickets in total and winning Man of the Match honours.
“It has been a draining five days emotionally and physically, very tight game, we are delighted to come out with a win,” he said.
“I am just delighted we could sneak home. It was incredible tension, I am lost for words, really. It has been an amazing five days. The Australian tail is quite extraordinary _ they are very difficult to get out.”
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