NEW DELHI: In a hilarious incident, England head coach Brendon McCullum was caught on camera searching for answers while solving a crossword during the opening day of the fifth and final Ashes Test against Australia at the SCG on Sunday.

While it was unclear what McCullum was searching for at the back of his crossword booklet, the on-air commentators couldn't help but laugh, joking that the England coach appeared to be checking the answers instead of solving the puzzle himself.

"Hang on Baz, you gotta be careful on national TV, looking at the answers on the back of the (laughs). Come on Baz, you are better than that my friend. Caught red handed, Baz," a commentator was heard saying.

Root, Brook rescue England on rain-hit Day 1

Joe Root and Harry Brook produced a composed rescue act, stitching together an unbroken 154-run stand to steer England to 211 for 3 at the close before bad light and rain brought an early end to play. The day also carried an emotional tone, with players observing an on-field tribute to the Bondi terror victims and first responders.

England were in early trouble at 57 for 3 when Root and Brook came together, but the pair steadily rebuilt the innings during the middle session, blunting Australia's attack with patience and controlled aggression. Persistent poor light, followed by rain just before tea, ensured no further play was possible for the remainder of the day.

At stumps, Root remained unbeaten on 72 while Brook was 78 not out, the partnership standing as England's highest of the five-Test series. Australia, however, have already secured the Ashes, having claimed victory in the opening three matches.