Zak Crawley etched his name in the annals of Ashes history with a truly unforgettable innings during the ongoing 4th Ashes 2023 Test at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester. In a display of remarkable skill and confidence, he smashed an astonishing 189 runs off just 182 balls in England’s first innings, effectively putting his team in control after they had earlier dismissed Australia for 317 runs.
The morning session saw Anderson and Woakes efficiently wrap up the remaining two Australian wickets. In response, England faced an early setback with Duckett’s dismissal in the third over. However, Crawley and Moeen Ali displayed fearless batting, taking on the Australian pacers with audacious shots and building a fruitful partnership of 121 runs off 152 balls, with Crawley contributing 62 runs off 70 deliveries.
While Australia found some relief after dismissing Moeen, their relief was short-lived as Crawley and Root joined forces to create one of the most sensational partnerships in Ashes history. Both right-handed batsmen mesmerized the crowd with breathtaking cricket, finding gaps in the field and hitting the ball over the fielders with apparent ease. Together, they amassed a staggering 206 runs off 186 balls, with Crawley reaching both his century and fifty milestones.
Crawley’s remarkable innings finally came to an end when a delivery from Cameron Green rattled onto his stumps, resulting in his dismissal for 189 runs off 182 balls. Despite the competitive spirit, the Australian players showed tremendous sportsmanship, shaking hands with Crawley and applauding his outstanding efforts on the field.
As he made his way back to the pavilion, Crawley received praise from his opponents. Cameron Green was the first to congratulate him on his thunderous century, followed by David Warner and Alex Carey, who ran towards him to shake his hand and acknowledge his brilliant hundred. Non-striker Joe Root also offered his appreciation with a pat on Crawley’s back, and even players from cover position, like Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith, extended their hand in admiration.
A devastating innings comes to an end…
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 20, 2023
What an incredible knock from Zak Crawley đź‘Ź #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/iyPrQrltlh
The cameras then panned across different parts of Old Trafford, capturing the entire crowd on their feet, showering Crawley with applause for his scintillating century, which had placed England in a commanding position in the game.