England End 15-Year Wait with Gritty Four-Wicket Win Over Australia

England produced a resilient and spirited performance to win their first Test match in Australia in 15 years, defeating the hosts by four wickets in a dramatic fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The match, played in front of more than 92,000 spectators, was wrapped up inside two intense days and restored pride to an England side under heavy scrutiny.

A Chaotic Test Settled at the MCG

After a frenetic opening day that saw 20 wickets fall, England dismissed Australia for just 132 shortly after lunch on day two. That set a modest target of 175, which England chased with composure despite regular wickets, sealing victory with six wickets down.

Harry Brook and Jamie Smith calmly finished the job, sparking loud celebrations from England’s travelling supporters. Earlier contributions from Jacob Bethell, who scored 40, and opener Zak Crawley with 37 proved decisive in a low-scoring contest.

England Responds Under Pressure

England arrived in Melbourne having lost the first three Tests and facing questions over their preparation and focus. The pressure was intense, but the response was clear. From the opening overs of the chase, the visitors played with intent.

Ben Duckett and Crawley went after the bowling, bringing up a rapid fifty-run opening stand. Duckett was bowled for 34 by a sharp Mitchell Starc yorker, while Crawley fell lbw to Scott Boland after a determined knock.

An experimental move saw Brydon Carse promoted to number three, but the gamble failed as he was dismissed cheaply. Despite further wickets falling, England never lost control of the chase.

Australia Struggles on a Lively Pitch

The pitch, with visible grass and plenty of movement, heavily favoured fast bowlers. Australia resumed their second innings at 4 without loss but quickly collapsed as England’s attack maintained relentless pressure.

Steve Smith was the only Australian batter to show resistance, finishing unbeaten on 24. The last four wickets fell for just 13 runs, underlining Australia’s struggles on a surface that drew criticism from former players for offering too much assistance to bowlers.

England’s Bowlers Set Up Historic Win

England’s seamers were central to the victory. Gus Atkinson made early breakthroughs before leaving the field with an apparent hamstring issue. Josh Tongue, Ben Stokes, and Brydon Carse shared key wickets as Australia failed to build partnerships.

The hosts were bowled out shortly after lunch, leaving England with a clear opportunity to break a long-standing drought on Australian soil.

England Confidence Boost Ahead of Final Test

England had not won a Test in Australia since January 2011, a run that included 16 defeats and two draws. This victory snapped that streak and injected fresh confidence into the squad ahead of the final Test in Sydney.

After days of criticism and doubt, England delivered when it mattered most. The win keeps the Ashes series alive and proves that even under pressure, this team still knows how to fight.