England have broken a long-standing drought, securing their first Test match victory in Australia for over 13 years with a tense, four-wicket triumph in a chaotic encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The win, achieved on the second day, ensures the visitors avoid a series whitewash in the Ashes.
A Madcap Match and a Daring Chase
Set a target of 175 to win, England's approach was aggressive from the outset, reflecting the unpredictable nature of a Test played on a heavily criticised pitch. Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley provided a turbo-charged start, racing to 51 runs in just seven overs. The innings was punctuated by a bizarre moment that encapsulated the match's zany spirit: the promotion of Brydon Carse to number three shortly before tea for a brief, swinging cameo.
The MCG surface, prepared with 10mm of grass – 3mm more than usual – was branded ‘a joke’ by former England captain Michael Vaughan, making every wicket feel imminent. Undeterred, England maintained their attacking intent. By tea, they had rocketed to 77 for two off only 12 overs. The momentum continued after the interval, with the hundred coming up inside 16 overs as Crawley (37) and the impressive Jacob Bethell (40 from 46 balls) built a crucial partnership.
Nervous Moments Before Historic Win
The chase encountered inevitable jitters. Bethell fell to a brilliant catch by Usman Khawaja, and a marginal lbw decision accounted for Joe Root for 15. When Ben Stokes edged behind with just 10 runs needed, a flicker of anxiety returned. However, Harry Brook and Jamie Smith held their nerve, sealing the historic victory at 5.24pm local time. The win means England travel to Sydney with the aim of limiting the series defeat to 3-2.
Bowlers Set Up Victory After Australia Collapse
The foundation for the win was laid earlier in the day by a disciplined English bowling performance. Resuming on a slender lead of 46, Australia's second innings unravelled for 132 all out, meaning they were dismissed twice in the match in a combined total of just 79.5 overs – the quickest in any Test since 1929.
Despite an injury to Gus Atkinson, England's seamers rose to the challenge. Brydon Carse, adjusting his length after a wayward first innings, claimed key wickets including Travis Head for 46. Josh Tongue and Ben Stokes also struck vital blows, with Steve Smith left stranded as the tail collapsed in a heap. Australia's total left a gettable, yet nerve-wracking, target for the tourists.
This result marks a significant moment for English cricket in Australia, ending a wait of 19 matches without a win on these shores. While the Ashes urn remains with Australia, the victory in Melbourne provides a vital morale boost and ensures the final Test in Sydney carries competitive meaning.
