IMAGE: Steven Smith of Australia celebrates reaching his century. Photograph: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Australia’s Steve Smith struck a superb 144 on his return to the side as they recovered from 122-8 to reach 284 all out against England in the first innings of the first Ashes Test before the hosts saw out two overs unscathed at Edgbaston on Thursday.
IMAGE: Chris Woakes appeals for the wicket of Usman Khawaja which is given out after review. Photograph: Stu Forster/Getty Images
David Warner, who was banned along with Smith and Cameron Bancroft following a ball-tampering scandal, was out for two before Bancroft (8) fell, and Chris Woakes dismissed Usman Khawaja (13) as Australia went into the lunch break at 83-3.
IMAGE: Stuart Broad of England successfully appeals for the wicket of David Warner. Photograph: Gareth Copley/Getty Images
England’s Jimmy Anderson did not return after lunch due to injury but the wickets continued to fall, leaving Australia struggling at 122-8, but Smith, who had earlier survived one of several incorrect on-field decisions, led the recovery.
IMAGE: Stuart Broad celebrates the wicket of Cameron Bancroft. Photograph: Stu Forster/Getty Images
He completed an emotional century — his 24th Test 100 — before being bowled out by Stuart Broad, who finished with 5-86, before England’s Rory Burns and Jason Roy survived a brief spell at the crease, with the home side at 10-0 at the close of play.
