England end 14-year Ashes drought with rare Test win
England end 14-year Ashes drought with rare Test win: The old fortress has fallen. In a blistering display of intent, Ben Stokes’ England erupted at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Securing a decisive four-wicket victory in the Boxing Day Test. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement, shattering a 14-year. 5,468-day drought since England’s last Ashes triumph on Australian soil.
The Relentless Chase
Chasing a tricky target of 175 on a lively pitch, England rewrote the script of the match. Where others had stumbled to low scores, they attacked with ferocity, scoring at over five runs per over. The audacity was clear: fast bowler Brydon Carse was promoted to number three as a pinch-hitter. A move emblematic of England’s “run now, think later” philosophy. It worked. Harry Brook (18) and Jamie Smith (3) coolly sealed the victory late on the second day. Posting the highest innings total of a low-scoring contest.
Breaking the Spell & Shaking the Table
This victory is a landmark moment, revitalizing the series and handing Australia their first defeat on home turf this cycle. Beyond the Ashes, the win sends shockwaves through the ICC World Test Championship. England’s points percentage leaps to 35.19%, keeping their faint final hopes alive.
Australia, while still perched at the top of the standings with an 85.71% percentage, now feels the breath of their rivals. New Zealand (77.78%) and South Africa (75%) have closed the gap significantly.
A Costly Triumph?
Celebration may be tempered by concern. Key pace bowler Gus Atkinson suffered a hamstring injury early on the second day. Casting serious doubt over his availability for the series finale. His potential absence would be a major blow to England’s momentum.
The Stage is Set for Sydney
The Ashes reach their climax at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 4. With pride, momentum, and crucial World Test Championship points on the line. The fifth Test promises a fierce conclusion to a reignited battle.
Final XIs from Melbourne:
Australia: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, Scott Boland.
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue.
