England ended a 14-year wait for an away Ashes Test victory with a remarkable four-wicket win over Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, wrapping up the contest inside two days. Chasing 175, England adopted an aggressive approach, scoring at over five runs per over and even promoting pacer Brydon Carse to No. 3 in search of quick runs. Harry Brook (18) and Jamie Smith (3) guided the visitors home to secure their first Test win in Australia since January 2011.
The match was dominated by the bowlers across the first three innings, but England produced the highest total of the contest in the decisive fourth innings to keep the series alive. The victory reduces Australia’s series lead to 3–1 heading into the final Test in Sydney on January 4.
The result is also a boost to England’s ICC World Test Championship campaign, lifting their win-loss percentage to 35.19, though they remain seventh on the table. Australia continue to lead the standings with 85.71 percent, ahead of New Zealand and South Africa.
However, England’s win came with concern as pacer Gus Atkinson suffered a hamstring injury on the second day and remains doubtful for the Sydney Test.
The dramatic result marks England’s first victory in Melbourne since 2010 and injects fresh excitement into the Ashes, with one final clash remaining in the series.
