Australia go in at the end of the second day of the first Ashes test at 311-5. England had declared on the first day at 393-8 in a decision that surprised many. After Joe Root’s day one hundred, the partnership of Danny Carey and Usman Khawaja helped the Aussies make some vital inroads.
The latter notched his 15th test match hundred, and his first in England, which sparked joyous scenes. Khawaja celebrated with tears in his eyes and really seemed to value this century above all others. Notching a hundred in England had clearly been a personal roadbump that the 36-year-old had been desperate to overcome.
Australia looked like they might not overcome the bowling of Stuart Broad before lunch. David Warner and world-leading batsman Marnus Labuschagne were seen off with consecutive balls. The latter dismissal featured a peach of a catch from Jonny Bairstow. Australia looked like they may not get out of the blocks.
Steve Smith went from an lbw while Moeen Ali marked his comeback with his first wicket in 650 days to wave off Travis Head. Ali repeated the trick with Cameron Green, getting a vicious turn on his ball.
But Khawaja was starting to settle. 84 before tea went beyond 100 in due course once play resumed. Once Carey was partnering him it really looked like Australia were hitting their stride. A promising end to day two for the visitors, who must have wished play could have carried on into the night.
If you fancy Khawaja to continue in his fine vein of form, Betfred have him at 4/7 to exceed 150 runs and 16/5 to surpass 200. Carey’s +77.5 or over at 5/6 doesn’t look bad value either. In terms of picking a match winner, you can get 6/5 for Australia or if you’re backing England, Betfred have them at 21/10.
*18+ | BeGambleAware | Odds Subject To Change
