'I'm Proud...': Australian PM Anthony Albanese Responds to UK PM Rishi Sunak's Ashes Criticism
Australia won the second Test by 43 runs [AP Photo]
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded to the recent controversy surrounding the stumping of Jonny Bairstow by taunting England, asserting that Australia is "always winning."
Anthony's statement came in the wake of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's support for English skipper Ben Stokes' stance on the incident during the final day of the Lord's Test.
In the second Ashes 2023 Test, Australia emerged victorious over England, securing a 43-run victory and a 2-0 lead in the five-match Test series. Despite Ben Stokes' fighting century, England fell short of the target of 371 runs on the last day. However, the match was not without controversy, as it revolved around the contentious stumping of England's Jonny Bairstow.
Bairstow was dismissed by Australia's wicketkeeper, Alex Carey, who displayed his brilliant presence of mind. On the last ball of the 52nd over in England's second innings, Bairstow ducked a short ball from Cameron Green, which reached Carey directly.
Assuming the ball was dead, Bairstow walked down the pitch to have a chat with his captain Ben Stokes, leaving his crease unguarded. However, Carey was observant and swiftly threw the ball at the stumps, resulting in Bairstow's dismissal.
This dismissal has divided the cricketing world, with some arguing that it was legal and others contending that it violated the spirit of the game.
Expressing his pride in the Australian men's and women's cricket teams, both of whom have won their opening two Ashes matches against England, Prime Minister Albanese took a jibe at England, stating:
“I’m proud of our men’s and women’s cricket teams, who have both won their opening two Ashes matches against England. Same old Aussies – always winning!
"Australia is right behind Alyssa Healy, Pat Cummins and their teams and look forward to welcoming them home victorious,” Anthony Albanese wrote via his Twitter handle.
The ongoing Ashes series holds significant importance for both teams, and such incidents can add fuel to the already intense rivalry between the two cricketing powerhouses. The third Ashes Test match takes place at Headingley, Leeds on July 6. Australia lead the series 2-0.
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