It had been 844 days since the world’s most fierce and famous foes last faced off.

And from Leeds to Leederville and Cotswolds to Cottesloe, they came from all over the world to Perth to witness history unfold on the first day of the most anticipated Ashes series in 143 years.

In a day of mayhem that mirrored last year’s clash with India, a remarkable 17 wickets fell on the opening day. England were bowled out for 172, with Australia at 8-121 just before stumps.

Even hours before the first ball on Friday morning, a noisy stampede of more than 51,531 die-hard cricket fans lucky enough to have the hottest ticket in town flooded the walkways of Optus Stadium.

The aura of it all was summed up best by Alex Marsden, who, flanked by his ‘Cottesloe Crew,’ could not get there fast enough.

“It’

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