![Ashes 2023: [WATCH] Mitchell Starc’s Stunning Delivery Shatters Ben Stokes’ Stumps](https://cricfit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/20230728_175540.jpg "Ashes 2023: [WATCH] Mitchell Starc’s Stunning Delivery Shatters Ben Stokes’ Stumps")
Australian fast bowler, Mitchell Starc, showcased his brilliance as he delivered a mesmerizing blow to England’s captain, Ben Stokes, during the opening day of the highly anticipated fifth Ashes Test at the renowned Kennington Oval. The left-handed batsman, Stokes, was left stunned and forced to trudge back to the pavilion with a mere single-figure score, while Australia celebrated a crucial breakthrough.
The pivotal moment took place in the 39th over of the innings when Starc, known for his lethal pace and swing, unleashed a near-perfect delivery that squared up Stokes. The ball initially appeared to be heading straight, but to Stokes’ dismay, it deviated slightly after pitching, causing his off-stump to be uprooted. The picturesque dismissal left onlookers in awe of Starc’s bowling prowess.
Throughout the series, Stokes had been a thorn in Australia’s side, inflicting significant damage with his aggressive strokeplay. His remarkable knock of 155 in a high-pressure situation nearly led England to a miraculous victory in pursuit of a daunting 371-run target.
Notably, in the third Test at Headingley, Stokes played a vital role, amassing 80 crucial runs in the first innings to significantly narrow the gap for the hosts.
An absolute beauty from Mitchell Starc 🔥#ENGvAUS #Cricket #Ashes2023 pic.twitter.com/dzotu4Datn
— ReBeL TeJa (@SaitejaTweets) July 27, 2023
Ben Stokes fails to win the toss for the first time during the 2023 Ashes series
The fifth Ashes Test was also noteworthy as it marked the first time in the series that the coin toss fell in favour of Australian skipper Pat Cummins. Electing to field first, Australia sought to capitalize on early opportunities.
Despite dropping a couple of chances in the opening hour, the tourists made a strong comeback, dismissing key English batsmen such as Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root, who could only manage a mere 5 runs.
However, England’s batting fortunes turned when the young and promising Harry Brook unleashed a remarkable counterattack alongside the experienced Moeen Ali. The duo put together an impressive partnership of 111 runs before Todd Murphy, making his return, managed to break through and dismiss Ali.
With a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, Australia was keen on securing their first Test series victory on English soil since 2001. Victory in the fifth Test would be the ultimate testament to their dominance in the rivalry.
On the other hand, England sought to level the series by capitalizing on their remaining batting resources. As the match headed into the tea break, England was at 250-7, with the resilient pair of Mark Wood and Chris Woakes offering hope for the home team.
In conclusion, Mitchell Starc’s devastating delivery that dismantled Ben Stokes’ stumps was a defining moment of the fifth Ashes Test. Both teams were aware of the significance of this match, and with everything at stake, fans eagerly awaited the final outcome, which would undoubtedly shape the legacy of this fiercely contested cricketing rivalry.
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