Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh made a sensational comeback to Test cricket after almost four years, hitting a hundred on Day 1 of the third Ashes Test at Leeds. His century came as a relief as the visitors suffered an early top-order collapse.
Marsh played a crucial run-a-ball innings of 118, lifting Australia from 85/4 to 240/5 before England bundled out Australia for 263. Marsh, who came in place of injured Cameron Green, raced to his hundred in 102 balls to frustrate the England bowlers. His innings came to an end when Chris Woakes removed him for 118 in the 53rd over.
“It was pretty amazing, I’m still lost for words. In the past my nerves have really got the better of me and I’ve worked really hard to control them. I think it’s the first time I’ve been dropped in Test cricket and you always need some luck, it was my day,” Marsh said while speaking to BBC Sport.
Mark Wood’s exceptional bowling performance, claiming five wickets, set up an intense battle in the third Ashes Test at Headingley. After Wood’s efforts helped dismiss Australia for 263, with Marsh’s stunning century being the standout performance, England faced a challenging task, ending the day at 68/3 and trailing by 195 runs.
Winning the toss proved advantageous for England as they exploited the quick pitch, reducing Australia to 85/4 before Marsh’s explosive innings. His 118 runs, including 17 fours and four sixes, propelled Australia to a stronger position with a partnership of 155 runs alongside Travis Head.
Despite dropping crucial catches earlier, England regained momentum after Marsh’s dismissal just before tea. In a thrilling display of high-paced bowling, Wood, making his first appearance in the series, claimed figures of 5-34, including a lightning-fast delivery of 96.5mph.
During the evening session, England lost three wickets, with Ben Duckett and Harry Brook falling to Pat Cummins, and Marsh removing Zak Crawley. At stumps, Joe Root stood firm at 19 not out, accompanied by Jonny Bairstow on one.
