The Ashes 2025–26 series began with high intensity as Australia and England clashed in the much-anticipated opener, but one moment stood above the rest—Mitchell Starc delivering a sensational ball to dismiss England captain Ben Stokes. The fiery left-armer, known for his destructive spells with the new ball, produced a trademark in-swinger that sent the cricket world buzzing. The dismissal quickly became the highlight of Day 1 and has since gone viral across cricket platforms.
Stokes walked in under pressure, with England looking to steady their innings after early setbacks. The pitch at the Gabba offered just enough movement, and Starc made full use of the conditions. With pace touching the high 140s, he set Stokes up with a sequence of deliveries that moved away. Then came the magic ball—a late-tailing inswinger that started on a good length and curved sharply back into the left-hander.
Ben Stokes attempted to bring his bat down in time, but the ball beat him for pace and swing, sneaking through the gap between bat and pad. In a split second, the off-stump was knocked back, and the Australian crowd erupted in celebration. Starc, pumping his fists, let out a roar that displayed not just joy, but the significance of removing England’s most resilient middle-order force.
The dismissal immediately shifted the momentum in Australia’s favour. Stokes, who has been a thorn in Australia’s side for years—especially after his unforgettable Headingley heroics—was expected to play a major role in the series opener. His exit for a low score dented England’s hopes of building a strong first-innings total and highlighted the ongoing challenge of facing Starc under fresh conditions.
MITCH STARC SEEEEEEED! What a ball to dismiss Ben Stokes. #Ashes | #PlayoftheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/PehDst540x
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 21, 2025
Experts and former cricketers praised the delivery, calling it “unplayable” and “classic Starc at his best.” Social media erupted with fans sharing replay clips, analysing the swing, and celebrating the nostalgic feel of a vintage Ashes battle. Commentators noted that this wicket may set the tone for the fast bowler’s confidence throughout the rest of the series.
As the match progressed, Australia continued to dominate with the ball, while England struggled to recover from the early damage inflicted by Starc. With the Ashes rivalry always full of drama, this moment added a fiery beginning to what promises to be another epic contest between the two cricketing giants. If the opening spell is anything to go by, Mitchell Starc is all set to make the 2025–26 Ashes series another memorable chapter in his illustrious career.