On this surface, attack was the best form of defence – ideal for an England team who “run towards the danger”. Rightly criticised for failing to adapt to conditions earlier in the series, this was the perfect scenario for some Bazballing.
Duckett has endured a difficult tour with the bat, made worse when a video of the opener apparently drunk in Noosa was shared online. Here the travelling fans chanted his name as he clipped and slashed England to a rapid start, even scooping Michael Neser over the wicketkeeper for six.
Crucially, Duckett was dropped by a diving Mitchell Starc in his follow-through on eight – England were 13-0 at the time. Reprieved, Duckett gave England momentum before he was yorked by Starc.
Carse’s promotion from number 10 to number three was astonishing, as England looked for further impetus from a pinch-hitter. By this point, Crawley was into his stride, planting Neser for a straight six.
Carse swiped only six before he top-edged to third man, and Bethell’s arrival signalled the start of orthodox Test cricket. His partnership with Crawley added 47, the third-wicket pair astutely taking the singles allowed by a deep-set Australian field.
Crawley played across Scott Boland to be lbw when England still needed 63. Bethell remained unflappable on his Ashes debut, adding another important 25 with Root before he slapped Boland to cover.
It would have been fitting for either of Root or Stokes to be at the crease when victory was completed, though both were dismissed when victory was in touching distance.
There was a hint of tension when Jamie Smith faced his first ball with 10 needed to win, only for his clip off Starc for three to bring the Barmy Army to their feet.
Victory was sealed in the next over, England’s players streaming on to the field to acknowledge the supporters who filled this cathedral of Australian sport with joyful song.
