Ashes 2025-26: England Beat Australia on Day 2 of Fourth Test at MCG. The kangaroos faced the England cricket team in the fourth Test of the Ashes 2025-26. The match was played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. England produced a stunning performance to beat Australia by four wickets in boxing day text.
Australia were bowled out for 152 in the first innings. England struggled early and were dismissed for 110. Australia gained a lead of 42 runs after the first innings. The pitch offered a sharp seam and uneven bounce. Batters from both teams found scoring very difficult. Fast bowlers dominated most sessions of the match.
Australia batting collapse
In the second innings, Australia collapsed again for 132. England was set a challenging target of 175 runs. The chase began with positive intent from England’s openers. Ben Duckett scored a quick 34 at the top. Zak Crawley added 37 runs with calm shot selection. Jacob Bethell played a key knock of 40 runs.
England lost wickets but kept the scoreboard moving. Harry Brook and Jamie Smith handled pressure well. They guided England to victory with smart running and defence. England reached the target in just over 32 overs. The test finished inside two days, surprising many fans. It became one of the shortest completed Ashes Tests.
Josh Tongue delivered a match-winning bowling display. He took seven wickets across both Australian innings. Tongue was named Player of the Match for his impact. The MCG pitch attracted heavy criticism after the match. Experts felt the surface was too dangerous for batting. Officials promised a review of pitch preparation standards.
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Despite the loss, Australia still leads the Ashes series 3-1. They had already retained the Ashes urn earlier. England’s win avoided a series whitewash. The result boosted England’s confidence ahead of the final Test. Fans witnessed high drama, pace, and classic Ashes intensity.