Crawley bags twin ducks in Ashes opener, joins unwanted list
What's the story
Mitchell Starc, Australia's ace fast bowler, has once again proven his exceptional athleticism and fielding skills. After taking seven wickets in the first innings of the ongoing Ashes opener at Perth's Optus Stadium, Starc started the second innings on a high note by dismissing England's Zak Crawley for the second time in as many innings. Notably, Crawley bagged ducks in both innings and thus joined an unwanted list. Here are further details.
Athleticism on display
Starc's catch: A display of agility and reflexes
The incident occurred in the first over of England's second innings after they restricted Australia to a mere 132-run total. Starc bowled a good-length delivery around the off stump, leaving Crawley confused. The English opener was late on his half-hearted push straight down the ground, resulting in an aerial catch that Starc took after diving to his left. This showed his agility and sharp reflexes, making it one of the best catches of his career.
Twitter Post
Here is the video!
WHAT A RIDICULOUS TAKE! Mitchell Starc sends Zak Crawley off for a pair! #Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/1cg8PtLzx4
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2025
Bowling brilliance
Starc's impressive performance in the 1st Ashes Test
Starc's performance in the first Ashes Test at Perth has been nothing short of spectacular. He claimed a career-best seven wickets in the first innings as the visitors were folded for just 172. The left-arm pacer took three England wickets in his first five overs during the game's opening session. Having trapped Crawley twice in the opening over in Perth, Starc has now completed 25 first-over wickets in Tests - the most for any player since his debut.
List
Crawley join these names
As per Cricbuzz, Crawley became the fourth England opener to bag a pair in an Ashes Test. The other names on this unwanted list are Trevor Bailey, Dennis Amiss, and Michael Atherton. Meanwhile, Starc has now trapped Crawley four times across 15 Test meetings, accordi. On Australian soil, the latter has managed just 166 runs across eight Ashes innings at 20.75 (50s: 1). Overall, Crawley owns 3,313 Test runs at 30.96 (100s: 5, 50s: 19).