Welcome to news.com.au’s live coverage of day two of the opening Ashes Test from Perth Stadium after a chaotic opening day unfolded at the crease.

Stokes keeps probing at Head, first with a very full 133.1 kph delivery outside off, Head drags it off the inner half to mid-on, no run. A few overs later, Stokes tempts him again with a full 135.2 kph delivery outside off; Head goes after it with a big drive but almost edges it.

Veteran quick Mitchell Starc was in devastating form, taking a career-best 7-58. But by the close, Ben Stokes was bouncing through Australian batters — and then the celebrations of his England team-mates — to bag 5-23 himself to ensure the visitors sleep well ahead of tomorrow’s second day, when Australia will resume on 123 for nine.

Nineteen wickets fell on an insane opening day of the first Ashes Test at Perth Stadium as the pacemen wreaked havoc on a bowler-friendly wicket.

The opening Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series has already delivered drama, records, and a storm of early wickets, with Mitchell Starc and Zak Crawley unintentionally scripting one of the most unusual starts in Test cricket history.

What a day. There is nothing like Ashes cricket. Test cricket is great, but no other series feels like this. It felt like a huge event, with so many travelling England fans and amazing home support too.

The Ashes is a storied rivalry between Australia and England that has captivated cricket fans since 1882. Born from a mock newspaper obituary, the series is symbolized by a tiny urn containing —

Australia host England in the first Ashes Test in Perth - follow live scores, radio commentary, video highlights and updates.