England have finally broken their long-running Ashes hoodoo in Australia, securing a dramatic and chaotic four-wicket victory in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The win, achieved in just two frantic days, ends a barren run of 16 defeats and two draws across four tours spanning 15 years.
A Landmark Victory Against the Odds
The triumph, sealed on Saturday 27 December 2025, ensures Ben Stokes's side avoid the ignominy of a 5-0 series whitewash, despite having already surrendered the Ashes urn after three consecutive defeats. Chasing a target of 175 on a treacherous, minefield-like pitch, England navigated the perilous conditions to claim their first Test win on Australian soil since January 2011.
The victory was set up by a magnificent bowling performance, with England dismissing Australia for just 132 in their second innings in under 35 overs. This effort was all the more impressive given the loss of seamer Gus Atkinson to a hamstring injury after just four overs.
Heroes Emerge from the Chaos
Stepping into the breach, Brydon Carse produced a career-best display, claiming 4-34 and finding a crucial rhythm at the perfect moment. Captain Ben Stokes chipped in with three wickets, while Josh Tongue provided vital support with two scalps, including that of key batsman Marnus Labuschagne.
The run chase was a typically bold and bewildering exhibition of the 'Bazball' ethos, perfectly suited to the high-stakes, short-form nature of the match. Opener Ben Duckett, despite being out of form, blasted a chaotic 34 to give the innings early momentum, including a remarkable ramp for six off Michael Neser.
The pivotal knock, however, came from Ashes debutant Jacob Bethell. His vital 40 runs provided much-needed stability amidst the carnage, even if it began with a heart-stopping attempted scoop shot off the very first ball of the evening session. Zak Crawley contributed a valuable 37, and Harry Brook remained unbeaten on 18 as the winning runs came, fittingly, via four leg-byes.
What This Win Means for England
While the Ashes series may be lost, this victory represents a significant salvage operation for English pride. It proves the team can win in the most challenging Australian conditions, overcoming a pitch that confounded all batters and a scoreboard pressure unlike any they have faced during their aggressive revolution.
The win also disrupts a deeply entrenched narrative of English failure in Australia, offering a tangible reward for a squad that has endured a tough tour. It provides a foundation of belief and a memorable highlight for players like Bethell and Carse, who announced themselves on the biggest stage.
Ultimately, this wild two-day contest in Melbourne will be remembered as the moment England emerged from years of disappointment to prove their methods can bear fruit even in the harshest of cricketing environments. The door to victory was open, and for the first time in a decade-and-a-half, England found their way through.
