Root and Brook anchor England at 211-3 on a rain-affected first day of the final Ashes Test.

On a rainy opening day of the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Joe Root and Harry Brook scored half-centuries in a 154-run partnership to steady England's innings. They led the team to 211 for 3 before poor light and rain stopped play. Root (72 not out) and Brook (78 not out) rebuilt the innings after England struggled early at 57 for 3. They dominated the second session and reached 200 in the 42nd over. For the first time in almost 140 years, Australia used an all-pace attack without a frontline spinner. First responders from the Bondi Beach attack were honored at the start of the game. With only 45 overs of play, England was in a strong position going into day two.