Alex Carey hit a crucial century to rescue Australia from a “sticky situation” on a dramatic opening day of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide on Wednesday.
The hosts, 2-0 up in the five-match series, suffered a blow before a ball had been bowled when batter Steve Smith was ruled out due to illness and Usman Khawaja parachuted in at the last moment.
And Khawaja, who came in at four after being overlooked as opener in favour of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald, produced a gritty knock of 82 in a vital partnership with Carey.
Carey's 106 off 143 balls hauled Australia out of trouble, coming to the crease at 94-4 with Jofra Archer having just dismissed Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green in the first three balls of the afternoon session.
He led sta
Continue Reading on The National UAE
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.