England held themselves back from an all-out `Bazball` attack and instead settled for a mix of easy singles and 12 fours but no sixes to go to lunch on 124-3 against an uncharacteristically cautious Australia in the first Ashes Test on Friday. Both teams will eat with some confidence at Edgbaston, though Australia gained a psychological edge when England opener Zak Crawley (61) was dismissed by seamer Scott Boland off the last ball before lunch. Joe Root (20 not out) was at the crease.

Australia set mostly defensive fields and has so far restrained the England attack ahead of a critical afternoon session after losing the toss on an excellent wicket to bat on in hot and sunny conditions. Australia captain Pat Cummins said he would have also batted first.