Alex Carey delivered an emotional century on his home ground as Australia seized control of the third Ashes Test against England on a scorching Wednesday at the Adelaide Oval.
The wicketkeeper-batsman struck a defiant 106 whilst Usman Khawaja contributed a determined 82 as the hosts reached 326/8 at stumps on day one, despite losing captain Steve Smith to illness before the toss.
Carey’s maiden Ashes century sparked celebration amongst 56,298 spectators, the largest cricket crowd in Adelaide Oval’s history, but controversy overshadowed his achievement following a crucial let-off on 72.
The 34-year-old acknowledged he likely edged a delivery from England quick Josh Tongue that Jamie Smith caught behind. “I thought there was a feather or some sort of noise when it passed the bat,” Carey admitted. “If I was given out I think I would have reviewed it, probably not confidently.”
The on-field umpire ruled not out, and England’s review failed when “snicko” technology showed a noise spike before the ball reached Carey’s bat. BBG, the technology operator, subsequently admitted to reporters that an error had likely occurred, prompting England to raise the matter with match referee Jeff Crowe.
“I don’t think we’ve done anything about it so far but after today, maybe that might go a bit further,” said England bowling consultant David Saker.
Carey’s emotional celebration included gesturing towards the sky in tribute to his father Gordon, who died from cancer in September. “I guess you know as well why I was looking to the heavens. I’m trying not to tear up. But, no, it was great,” he reflected.
Smith’s unexpected absence through illness provided Khawaja with a reprieve after selectors had overlooked him as opener. The left-hander, who missed the Brisbane Test with back spasms, capitalised on his opportunity before slog-sweeping Will Jacks to Josh Tongue in the deep just before tea.
Jofra Archer tormented Australia’s middle order with figures of 3/29, removing Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green with consecutive deliveries after lunch to leave the hosts reeling at 94/4.
Mitchell Starc remained unbeaten on 33* alongside Nathan Lyon, who was yet to score when stumps arrived in temperatures exceeding 36 Celsius.
Australia leads the five-Test series 2-0 and requires only a victory or draw to retain the Ashes following comprehensive eight-wicket victories in Perth and Brisbane.
Both teams wore black armbands whilst observing a moment’s silence before play commenced, paying respect to victims of the recent Bondi Beach mass shooting. Security measures were heightened throughout the ground, with flags flying at half-mast.
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