After Lachlan Hearne's spectacular hundred, Sam Cook’s bowling helped the England Lions regain control in a thrilling day of cricket.

Cook’s four-wicket haul dropped the Cricket Australia XI to 18 for four early in their innings, but Hearne’s quickfire 106 not out spurred a fightback, leaving the match balanced for the second day.

Early Strikes by Cook Spark Lions’ Fightback

Cook, one of county cricket’s most prolific seamers, excelled in Australia. As he ravaged the Cricket Australia XI top order, the Essex spinner was in good form after taking over 300 first-class wickets. For the latest cricket updates, join the BetPro login.

Cook’s well-disciplined line and length made him practically unplayable, and James Rew’s diving catch down the leg side dismissed veteran Peter Handscomb.

In an impressive opening spell, Cook reduced the hosts to 18 for 4, with Sheffield Shield leading run-scorer Henry Hunt falling in front.

His first innings performance showed why he is one of the county circuit’s most dependable and dangerous seam bowlers, giving the Lions a solid position.

Davies and Baker Set Lions Up for Success

Despite Cook's antics, the Lions’ batting lineup showed moments of brilliance. England’s captain, Alex Davies, opened the scoring with 57 off 57 balls, including four sixes. 

Though his quick-fire knock anchored the Lions’ first innings total of 223, his captaincy and energy helped the side score competitively.

Sonny Baker’s three wickets helped the Lions’ bowling success and diminished Australia's comeback prospects.

Spinner Shoaib Bashir added to the wickets column with a stunning return catch, but Cook’s first breakthrough set the tone for the bowling attack.

Hearne’s Amazing Counterattack

After an early collapse, Lachlan Hearne’s century got the hosts back in. After the fourth wicket fell, Hearne launched a stunning counter-attack, finishing unbeaten on 106 from 62 balls. 

He managed the pressure and England Lions’ high-class bowling with bold stroke play, the day's highlight.

After Hearne’s century, Cricket Australia XI reached 176 for 9, 47 runs behind England Lions. Despite not scoring a first-class century, his knock countered Cook’s dominance and showed his promise.

Looking Ahead

The Cricket Australia XI will need their tail to reduce the distance and possibly surpass the England Lions' 223 on the second day. The Lions must maintain their field discipline and capitalize on early successes. 

With Cook, Baker, and Bashir in good form, the Lions will try to complete the Australian innings swiftly to allow their batting line to improve their lead.

All eyes will be on whether the Cricket Australia XI can recover from the early onslaught and whether Hearne can continue his fantastic counter-attack in a match where bowlers and batters have shone. Cook and the Lions must stay focused and motivated to win this intriguing match.