Ashes 4th Test : England produced a memorable performance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to defeat Australia by four wickets on Day 2 of the Ashes 4th test, registering their first Test win on Australian soil in 15 years. The landmark victory came on Saturday, December 27, 2025, as England successfully chased down a modest target of 175 runs to keep the five-match series alive, although Australia still hold a commanding 3-1 lead.
Ashes 4th Test
The win was particularly significant given the context of the series. Australia had dominated the opening three Tests, sealing early retention of the Ashes within just 11 days of play. England arrived in Melbourne under immense pressure, but responded with resilience and discipline to deliver a drought-breaking triumph in front of a packed MCG crowd.
Australia began Day 2 with hopes of building a strong lead, but England’s bowlers struck decisively during the morning session. The turning point came with the dismissal of opener Travis Head, who had looked assured during his knock of 46. His departure triggered a dramatic collapse, as Australia slid from a relatively stable 82 for 3 to 88 for 6 within the space of a few overs.
Usman Khawaja was dismissed without scoring, while Alex Carey managed just four runs before falling victim to England’s relentless pressure. The visitors maintained tight lines and capitalised on every opportunity, refusing to allow Australia any breathing room.
England captain Ben Stokes led from the front with the ball after lunch, removing Cameron Green for 19 with a sharp catch at second slip. Stokes finished with impressive figures of 3 for 24, once again proving his value as an all-round leader. Brydon Carse then cleaned up the lower order with precision and pace, claiming four wickets for 34 runs to ensure Australia were bowled out cheaply.
Despite Australia holding an overall lead of 46 runs after the first innings, England’s response in the chase was calm and methodical. The target of 175 was not without its challenges, especially on a surface offering variable bounce, but England’s batters showed composure to see the job through late on Day 2.
The victory was all the more satisfying given England’s struggles earlier in the match. On the opening day, Australia had bowled England out for just 110 after posting 152 themselves, briefly taking control with a dramatic 4-0 start. However, England’s bowlers ensured the deficit remained manageable, setting the stage for a successful chase.
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This result injects renewed confidence into the England camp heading into the final Test, while also serving as a reminder that the Ashes rivalry remains fiercely competitive. Although Australia retain the urn, England’s win in the Ashes 4th test will be remembered as a statement performance-one that ended a long wait for success in Australia and restored pride after a challenging tour.
As attention now turns to the series finale, England will hope to build on this momentum, while Australia will look to reassert their dominance and close out the campaign on a high note.
