the weight of Ashes history descended on Rory Burns at Edgbaston in 2019, echoing a phenomenon experienced by Justin Langer in 2005 and again in 2006 against Steve Harmison - a hushed stadium anticipating the first ball of a series.
the opening delivery of an ashes series carries a psychological weight far beyond its immediate impact on the scoreboard. while not determinative of the contest,the first ball often sets a tone,and memories of those initial confrontations linger for players and fans alike. This is particularly true when the delivery is met with an unusual silence, as Langer recalled from his encounters with Harmison.
Langer, facing Harmison at the pavilion end, described the atmosphere as “bizarre.” “Generally what happens is the bowler runs in for the first ball and the crowd starts roaring, you can hear the whistling, shouting and banging, this time the whole crowd went silent,” he told the BBC’s stumped podcast.”It is indeed the most bizarre thing. it was tangible.”
Harmison’s first delivery whistled through to wicketkeeper Geraint Jones. Langer, acknowledging the intent with a smile, hopped on the spot before the next ball thudded into his elbow. The immediate aftermath saw fielders converging, and a warning from opening partner Matthew Hayden: “Matty Hayden walked down and said ‘be ready little fella, these guys are on’.
That series saw Harmison also strike Matthew Hayden – reportedly the only time he was hit on the helmet – and Ricky Ponting under the eye, a blow that still leaves a visible scar. Langer reflected on that period as “the best hour of cricket I have ever played in,” and remarkably, still remembers the silent first ball 18 years later.
burns, similarly an experienced opener, faced the opening delivery of an Ashes series, alongside Zak Crawley. while the 2019 Edgbaston encounter didn’t replicate the complete silence of Langer’s experience,the pressure and anticipation were palpable.
Not every Ashes first ball is etched in memory, but history suggests establishing early dominance is a significant advantage.
