Stokes hits beast mode on 'green monster'

BRYDON Carse revelled in England captain Ben Stokes unleashing “beast mode” on Australia as England’s bowlers produced a stunning fightback on day one of the first Ashes Test.

- By RORY DOLLARD

On a pitch branded a “green monster” by the local newspaper in Perth, Stokes opted to bat first and saw his side bowled out for 172 in less than 33 overs.

With Mitchell Starc snapping up career-best figures of seven for 58 it looked like being another anxiety-inducing chapter in England's dire run of form Down Under.

But their five-strong pace attack flipped the script with a brilliant display of speed and hostility, reducing their hosts to 123 for nine to hold a 49-run lead at the close.

It was dizzying, unmissable theatre and in its closing moments, Stokes thrust himself into centre stage.

He has poured his heart and soul into regaining full fitness after tearing a shoulder muscle against India in August and barged down the door to claim five for 23 ina six-over spell.

After Carse and Jofra Archer had shared the first four Australian wickets, Stokes took out Travis Head, Cameron Green, Starc, Alex Carey and Scott Boland in the space of 30 deliveries.