Root breaks century jinx in Australia to lead England charge; Starc surpasses Akram

Joe Root finally scored his maiden Test century in Australia on his fourth Ashes tour to guide England from a precarious 5-2 to 325-9 at stumps after a pulsating first day of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane on Thursday.

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Mitchell Starc became the most successful left-arm fast bowler in history as he claimed 6-71, but the opening sessions of the day-night contest were dominated by Root, who scored a masterful 135 not out.

Number II Jofra Archer thrilled the travelling army of fans as he smashed a career-best unbeaten 32 off 26 balls with two sixes to provide some late fireworks.

His unbroken IOth-wicket partnership of 61 with Root was a record for England at the Gabba.

The world’s top-ranked batsman, Root had failed to reach triple figures on three previous Ashes tours.

But the man who is second on the all-time run-scoring list behind only Sachin Tendulkar silenced the critics who said he couldn't be considered a true batting great until he had made a century in Australia.

"Unbelievable day for Joe. He has had that coming for a long time. I'm chuffed for him,” said Zak Crawley, who made 76 and shared a 117-run stand for the third wicket with Root.

“He's the best player I've ever played with or against. A champion bloke.”