England finally ended their long Ashes misery in Australia with a stunning Boxing Day Test victory in Melbourne, securing their first Test win Down Under in almost 15 years.
After weeks of criticism and disappointment, Ben Stokes’ side produced a spirited performance to chase down a target of 175, sealing a four-wicket win in a match that lasted just two days and 142 overs. The dramatic result spared England from total Ashes humiliation and injected pride into a difficult tour.
England’s chase was built on vital contributions from Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, and Jacob Bethell, who showed courage and intent on a pitch that heavily favoured fast bowlers. Duckett set the tone with a blistering 34 from just 26 balls before being yorked by Mitchell Starc, but his knock gave England early momentum.
Earlier, England’s bowlers had laid the foundation for victory by routing Australia for 132 in their second innings. On a seam-friendly, grass-covered surface at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, England’s attack exploited the conditions ruthlessly, triggering a collapse that saw Australia lose their final seven wickets for just 50 runs.
Travis Head top-scored with 46, while stand-in captain Steve Smith was left unbeaten on 24. Cameron Green added 19, but they were the only Australian batters to reach double figures. The key breakthrough came when Brydon Carse bowled Head with a delivery that pitched on leg stump and clipped the top of off, opening the floodgates.
Set 175 to win — the highest total of the match — England adopted an aggressive approach, knowing survival alone would not be enough. Crawley and Bethell kept the scoreboard ticking, while England even promoted fast bowler Carse to No.3 in a bold attempt to disrupt Australia’s quicks.
Bethell’s composed knock of 40 further strengthened his growing reputation, offering clear evidence that he could be a long-term solution at No.3. Despite losing wickets late in the chase, England held their nerve, with four leg byes off the pads of Harry Brook eventually taking them over the line.
The victory marked England’s first Test win in Australia since January 2011 and gave the Barmy Army something to celebrate after a bruising series. It was also only the second time since 1912 that two Tests in the same Ashes series were completed inside two days.
Speaking after the match, Stokes described the win as a “special feeling” but acknowledged the unusual nature of the contest. The England captain admitted the conditions heavily favoured one style of play but praised his team’s focus, resilience, and willingness to adapt under pressure.
While Australia still lead the Ashes series 3–1, England’s memorable triumph in Melbourne restored belief, lifted morale, and ensured the tour will be remembered for more than disappointment.
