• Mark Wood dismissed Usman Khawaja with a ripping in-swinger on Day 1 of Headingley Test.

  • England won the toss and opted to field first in the high-voltage contest.

Ashes 2023 [WATCH]: Mark Wood cleans up Usman Khawaja with a 95mph thunderbolt on Day 1 of 3rd Test
Mark Wood dismisses Usman Khawaja (Screengrab: @EnglandCricket)

The highly anticipated third Test of the Ashes 2023 between England and Australia commenced at Leeds in Headingley, with England’s captain Ben Stokes winning the toss and electing to field first.

The match saw an exhilarating start as the English team fielded their playing XI, which included Mark Wood, Chris Woakes, and Moeen Ali. Australia also revealed their XI after the toss, making three significant changes, including the inclusion of Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, and Scott Boland.

In line with England’s expectations, Stuart Broad provided a blazing start by dismissing opener David Warner in the very first over, marking the record 16th time he has dismissed Warner in the longest format. Following Broad’s early breakthrough, it was Wood’s turn to make an impact.

In the 13th over of Australia’s first innings, Wood unleashed a blistering delivery that shattered the stumps of opener Usman Khawaja. Wood, coming over the wicket, delivered a searing full and straight ball, with a subtle hint of inswing towards the stumps.

Khawaja attempted an on-drive but failed to connect, leaving his leg stump in disarray. Wood’s thunderous delivery showcased his raw pace and accuracy, leaving Khawaja no chance to respond. The dismissal further intensified England’s early dominance in the crucial third Test match.

Here is the video:

“We are gonna have a bowl. We are happy going either way. It looks like a very good cricket wicket. Aiming to get something with the ball early on. The injury that happened to Popey and few thought processes which went into it – one of which was what team we go for if I don’t bowl. It’s an amazing place to play cricket, especially the Western Terrace, we love playing here,” said England skipper Ben Stokes after the toss.

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AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.