England have finally broken their long-standing curse on Australian soil, securing a dramatic four-wicket victory in the Boxing Day Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The win, achieved on Saturday 27 December 2025, ends a barren run stretching back to January 2011.
A Batting Minefield and a Historic Chase
Facing a modest target of 175 on a treacherous pitch described as a "batting graveyard," England's chase was anything but straightforward. The prospect of a 5-0 series whitewash was vanquished as Ben Stokes's side navigated the perilous conditions to claim a memorable win. This victory marks their first Test triumph in Australia for 14 years, following 16 defeats and two draws across four previous tours.
The heroics were shared across the team. Debutant Jacob Bethell played a crucial innings of 40, showing remarkable composure amidst the chaos. His knock, which included a daring scoop shot off the first ball of the decisive evening session, proved vital in steering England towards their target.
Bowlers Set the Stage for Victory
The foundation for the win was laid by England's bowling attack, which produced a superb performance for the second consecutive day. Despite the early loss of Gus Atkinson to a hamstring injury, they skittled Australia for just 132 in their second innings. Brydon Carse, stepping up in Atkinson's absence, was the standout with figures of four for 34. Captain Ben Stokes chipped in with three wickets, while Josh Tongue claimed two.
England's chase embodied the high-risk 'Bazball' philosophy. Ben Duckett, promoted amid a lean patch, set a frenetic tone with a chaotic 34. The team even revived the 'nighthawk' tactic, sending Brydon Carse in at number three. Zak Crawley contributed a brisk 37, and though wickets fell regularly—including Joe Root and Stokes—Harry Brook remained unbeaten on 18 to see the side over the line with four leg-byes.
What This Win Means for England
While the Ashes urn remains in Australian hands after three prior defeats, this victory is a significant morale booster for an embattled touring party. It averts the humiliation of a series whitewash and provides a tangible reward for their aggressive approach. The match, hurtling to a conclusion in less than two days, was a bewildering yet captivating spectacle, proving that England's methods can succeed in the most traditional of Australian arenas.
The win was sealed in front of a stunned MCG crowd, as England, for the first time in a decade and a half, found a way through the door to victory on Australian shores.
