The Boxing Day Test’s opening day saw controversy as Brydon Carse dismissed Mitchell Starc on a suspected no ball. With Australia struggling at 142/7, Starc was caught after a miscued lofted drive, sparking debate over Carse’s alleged overstepping. Despite replays suggesting a possible no-ball, the third umpire ruled in favor of Carse, leading to disagreement among former Australian players.
Starc’s dismissal triggered a quick end for Australia, losing their final three wickets in just four balls, getting bowled out for 152 in the first innings. Meanwhile, England faced their own challenges at 62/4, with Starc and Michael Neser each taking two wickets. The Melbourne Cricket Ground saw a massive crowd of 93,442 attendees, surpassing previous Ashes and cricket match attendance records.
