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NEW DELHI: Australian summer, players in whites and Mitchell Starc producing a wicket in the first over of the match. Something that has started to feel inevitable in cricket. The second test at the Gabba opened the same way as Starc delivered another early blow to England.

Ben Duckett falls in first over

Starc found movement straightaway with a full ball that curled away outside off. Ben Duckett pushed at it on the very first ball he faced and the outside edge flew to Marnus Labuschagne at first slip who moved forward to complete a clean catch. Duckett was gone for a first ball duck as England stumbled right at the start.

Ollie Pope removed for another duck

Starc followed up with another strike moments later. Ollie Pope tried to carve a short ball through the off side but only ended up dragging it onto his stumps off the inside edge. Pope lasted three balls before falling for another duck as Starc continued his strong run in the longest format.

Crawley and Root steady England before tea

England eventually found stability through Zak Crawley who looked composed while bringing up a confident half century. Joe Root supported him with calm strokes and solid judgement as the pair guided England to safer ground.

England reached 98 for 2 at tea on day one with Crawley unbeaten on 61 and Root on 32 as the partnership grew to 93 runs.