England reignited the Ashes and ended a long-standing drought Down Under with a stunning four-wicket victory over Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), breathing fresh life into the iconic series. The emphatic win marked England’s first Test success on Australian soil in more than 14 years and significantly altered the momentum heading into the final match.
Led by captain Ben Stokes, England wrapped up the fourth Test late on the second day, successfully chasing a modest target of 175 with confidence and intent. Harry Brook (18 not out) and Jamie Smith (three not out) were at the crease when the winning runs were scored, as England completed the chase with relative ease. Notably, England scored at a rapid rate of more than five runs per over, underlining their aggressive “Bazball” approach even in challenging overseas conditions.
In a tactical move aimed at accelerating the run chase, England promoted fast bowler Brydon Carse to bat at number three. The gamble paid off, as England went on to register the highest total of the match in the fourth innings, despite a series of low scores across the first three innings of the contest.
The victory ended a winless run of 5,468 days for England in Tests played in Australia, dating back to their famous triumph in Sydney in January 2011. With one match remaining, England have now reduced the series deficit and restored pride after losing the opening three Tests.
Beyond the Ashes narrative, the win also boosted England’s prospects in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. England’s win-loss percentage improved to 35.19 percent, although they remain seventh on the WTC standings. Australia, despite the defeat, continue to lead the table with a strong 85.71 percent, though their advantage has narrowed over second-placed New Zealand (77.78 percent) and third-placed South Africa (75 percent).
However, England’s success at the MCG may have come at a cost. Key fast bowler Gus Atkinson suffered a hamstring injury early on day two and is now a doubt for the fifth and final Test in Sydney, posing a potential selection headache for the visitors.
The decisive final Test of the Ashes series will begin at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on January 4, where both teams will look to finish the series on a high.
Ashes Series Results so far:
• First Test, Perth: Australia won by eight wickets
• Second Test, Brisbane: Australia won by eight wickets
• Third Test, Adelaide: Australia won by 82 runs
• Fourth Test, Melbourne: England won by four wickets
• Fifth Test, Sydney: January 4–8
With history broken and momentum regained, England head to Sydney with renewed belief, while Australia aim to reassert their dominance in the series finale.