England stunned Australia with a four-wicket victory in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 27, 2025. This win ended a 14-year wait for an Ashes triumph on Australian soil and kept the series alive as it heads to Sydney with Australia leading 3-1.
Dramatic Two-Day Finish Shocks Fans
The match wrapped up in just two days, a rare event in Test cricket history. On day one, 20 wickets tumbled as both teams struggled on a lively pitch that favored bowlers.
England got bowled out for 110 after Australia scored 152 in their first innings. Australia then survived a tricky over to end the day leading by 46 runs.
Day two brought more chaos. Australia added to their lead but set England a target of 175 to win. England’s batsmen rose to the challenge, scoring at over five runs per over.
Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett provided a solid start, while Jacob Bethell contributed 40 vital runs. Harry Brook stayed not out on 18, guiding the team home with Jamie Smith.
This victory marked England’s first Test win in Australia since January 2011 in Sydney. It broke a drought of 5,468 days and boosted team morale after three straight losses.
Key Players Shine in Tough Conditions
Josh Tongue emerged as the player of the match with his impressive bowling. He claimed crucial wickets that swung the game in England’s favor.
Ben Stokes, the captain, praised the team’s grit. He noted how they adapted to the spicy pitch, which Steve Smith from Australia called too bowler-friendly.
England even promoted fast bowler Brydon Carse to bat at number three for quick runs. This bold move paid off and helped set the tone for the chase.
Australia’s batsmen faltered twice, with low scores highlighting the pitch’s challenges. Pat Cummins and his team could not capitalize on their early series dominance.
Fans and experts alike hailed the match as one of the most unpredictable in Ashes history. It reminded everyone why this rivalry captivates the cricket world.
Series Standings and Road to Sydney
Australia still leads the series 3-1 after strong wins in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide. This Melbourne result prevents a whitewash and gives England hope.
The fifth and final Test starts in Sydney on January 4, 2026. England aims to make it 3-2, while Australia wants to seal a 4-1 victory.
Here are the current series results:
- First Test (Perth): Australia won by 8 wickets
- Second Test (Brisbane): Australia won by 8 wickets
- Third Test (Adelaide): Australia won
- Fourth Test (Melbourne): England won by 4 wickets
This win could shift momentum. England has shown they can compete on tough Australian pitches.
Experts predict a close finale in Sydney. Weather and form will play big roles in deciding the urn’s fate.
Impact on Players and Future Tours
This victory boosts young talents like Bethell and Tongue. It proves England’s rebuilding efforts under Stokes are working.
For Australia, questions arise about their batting lineup. Veterans like Steve Smith need to step up in Sydney.
The two-day finish sparks debate on pitch preparation. Some call it a “crapshoot,” but it delivered thrilling cricket.
Looking ahead, this series sets the stage for the next Ashes in England in 2027. Both teams will learn from these intense battles.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Social media buzzed with reactions after the win. Supporters from both sides shared excitement and analysis.
- England’s Barmy Army celebrated with posts about regaining momentum and dreaming of a series turnaround.
- Australian fans expressed frustration over the pitch but acknowledged England’s deserved win.
- Global cricket followers praised the drama, calling it a classic Ashes moment.
These views show how the match united and divided fans worldwide.
| Key Match Statistics | England | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| First Innings Score | 110 | 152 |
| Second Innings Score | 175/6 | 133 |
| Top Scorer | Bethell (40) | Not specified |
| Best Bowler | Tongue (Player of Match) | Boland (key performer) |
| Total Wickets on Day 1 | 10 each | 10 each |
This table highlights the low-scoring nature and balanced fight.
The win inspires cricket lovers everywhere. It shows perseverance pays off in sport’s biggest rivalries.
Share your thoughts on this epic win. Did England deserve it, or was the pitch the real winner? Comment below and spread the word to fellow fans.
