Matthew Hayden's Bold Thrill: Joe Root Saves the Day:
In the dynamic Day-Night Test at the Gabba, the atmosphere was electric as England clashed with Australia. Despite Australia's sweeping early win in Perth, this match promised renewed vigor.
Day one belonged to England's cricket icon, Joe Root, celebrating his 40th century in his 160th Test match, a momentous first on Australian soil.
Amidst the cheers for Root, Matthew Hayden quietly emerged back into the limelight. With Root's accomplishment, a previously made public wager from Hayden resurfaced. Captured on Cricket England's video was a celebratory Hayden extending heartfelt congratulations to Root, reflecting genuine warmth.
Why does Hayden rejoice in Root's brilliance?
The story dates back to a bold pre-series assertion by Hayden. He had declared that without a Root century this Ashes series, he would boldly streak across the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). After falling to single digits in the Perth Test, tension mounted.
The cricket world buzzed with anticipation, imagining Hayden's predicament, especially as England's team succumbed swiftly in Perth.
Joe Root's triumphant century however, brought relief not only to England but especially to Hayden. The Rajasthan Royals joined in the social media revelry, posting a playful nod to Hayden's escape, cheekily framing the post with images of Root and Hayden.
Another circulating clip showcased Hayden joyfully exclaiming 'yes', underlining the shared relief and joy of Root's performance.
By stumps on the Gabba Test's opening day, England tallied 325/9, with Root steadfast at 132 and Jofra Archer supporting with 32. Australia's lineup witnessed strategic alterations, ushering in Josh Inglis and Michael Neser for the absent Usman Khawaja and Nathan Lyon. England pivoted, replacing Mark Wood with Will Jacks.
Australia's Gabba Playing XI:
Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (captain), Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendon Doggett.
England's Gabba Playing XI:
Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer.
The Ashes Tour Itinerary (2025–26)
First Test: Nov 21–25, Perth (Australia took victory by 8 wickets) Second Test: Dec 4-8, Gabba, Brisbane (D/N), starting 9:30 AM Third Test: Dec 17-21, Adelaide Oval, start 5 AM Fourth Test: Dec 26-30, Melbourne, start 5 AM Fifth Test: Jan 4-8, Sydney, start 5 AM (Timings based on Indian Standard Time)
