Australia’s Ashes defence is off to a flying start after a comprehensive nine-wicket win over England in the first Test at the Gabba. Here’s how former Australian captain Mark Taylor saw the performances from the Aussie XI.
David Warner: Not his finest Test knock, but continued to hang in and provided Australia with a solid start. 8/10
Marcus Harris: Missed out in the first innings under tough conditions, but nice to see him hit the winning runs. 4
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Marnus Labuschagne: Even though he got a few less than Warner, I thought he looked as good as anyone with the bat. 9
Steve Smith: A rare failure with the bat, but in a way, it’s great to see that Australia can win without big runs from him. 4
Travis Head: A great game for Travis, a match-winning 150 that inks him into the team for the rest of the series. 10
Cameron Green: A tricky one to rate – didn’t perform with the bat but looked great with the ball, posing a real threat. Also looks a good slip or gully fielder. 7
Alex Carey: Kept soundly, took everything he needed to take but unfortunately didn’t make runs. He looks a sound cricketer. 8
Pat Cummins: A terrific Test match debut as captain – he did everything he needed to do both personally, and as a leader. 9.5
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Mitchell Starc: His wicket on the first ball of the match set the tone, and picked up a couple of other handy ones when Australia needed them. 8
Nathan Lyon: No real opportunity in the first innings but toiled away bravely in the second and got his reward. 8
Josh Hazlewood: Looked threatening with the ball, although obviously there’s some concerns over his fitness for Adelaide – hopefully he’ll be OK. 8