‘Criminal’ - England fans fume at ‘joke performance’ in first day of second Ashes test vs Australia

Australia ended the first day of the second Ashes test on 221/2 after a stubborn batting display that left England’s attack looking largely frustrated.

Things started brightly for the visitors at the Adelaide Oval, with Marcus Harris bowled out for just three runs after a Stuart Broad delivery was gathered superbly by Jos Buttler.

From that point on Australia dug their heels in, however, and the hosts wouldn’t lose another wicket until deep into the third session.

David Warner was able to post an impressive 95 before gifting Broad a catch from a Ben Stokes delivery, and his partner Marnus Labuschagne ended the evening on the same total, not out.

The 27-year-old had to ride his luck on a couple of occasions though, and had Buttler to thank late in proceedings when the England wicketkeeper managed to fumble a routine edge.

The introduction of the new ball saw Root’s men concede just nine runs from their final 54 deliveries, but without an elusive wicket to show for their efforts, the mood among supporters at the end of the first day was one of overriding pessimism.

We’ve gathered some of the best reactions on social media below...

@CatoAnthony tweeted: “Game over, England have no chance no pace/spin.”

@MattyHC5 tweeted: “Another joke of a performance.”

@s_trxws tweeted: “I cannot see where England might even win a single session, let alone a whole match. Abject test side and this will be another hammering come January.”

Reacting to Buttler’s dropped catch late in the third session, several fans were quick to express their frustrations.

@lufcashb tweeted: “Ridiculous”.

@Matt2Morris tweeted: “Criminal”

@peaser49 tweeted: “When will England cop on and pick the best wicketkeeper available? This is a specialist position.”

Unsurprisingly, however, many Australian fans were delighted with their side’s resolute batting display.

@imumair10 tweeted: “AUSTRALIA’S DAY! Amazing batting from Warner & Labuschagne again together after shameless dismissal of Harris early. Marnus should have got that hundred & Smith needs to be more easy tomorrow to take it close to 450! Overall, satisfied with the day!”

@puntfiend tweeted: “Make these old fellas wake up tomorrow and bowl another 20 overs each in the 38 degree heat and they’ll be cooked for the rest of the series. Right where we want ‘em”

@rcutler68 tweeted: “Well done lads, a terrific first day/ night. Another three-day test!”