Ashes 5th Test Live Cricket Score Updates: Harry Brook and Joe Root led England’s fightback after an all-pace Australian attack struck early in Sydney.

In the opening session of the 5th Ashes Test at the SCG, Australia’s all-pace attack took control early, leaving England at 3-114 at the lunch break. After Ben Stokes won the toss and elected to bat, England’s top order struggled against a disciplined Australian bowling performance that, for the first time since 1888 at this venue, did not include a specialist spinner.

Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett put on 35 for the first wicket. Mitchell Starc provided the breakthrough, dismissing Duckett (27), who edged a wide delivery to Alex Carey shortly after hitting consecutive boundaries. Crawley (16) fell shortly before the drinks break, trapped lbw by Michael Neser. A hesitant review showed it as “umpire’s call,” forcing Crawley to depart. Jacob Bethell (10), batting at No. 3, was the third to go, undone by a superb delivery from Scott Boland that nipped away and took the edge.

Harry Brook and Joe Root then steadied England’s innings with crucial half-centuries, ensuring the team remained in contention despite early setbacks.