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2d ago

England End 15-Year Drought With Two-Day MCG Win as CA Warns on Short Tests

Cricket Australia warns short Tests hurt finances, signaling closer oversight of pitch preparation.

England defeated Australia by four wickets in the Melbourne Test.
Cricket - The Ashes - Australia v England - Fourth Test - MCG, Melbourne, Australia - December 27, 2025 England's Josh Tongue, Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Brydon Carse celebrate after taking the final wicket of Australia's 2nd innings REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake
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Overview

  • England chased 175 to win by four wickets in 32.2 overs, sealing their first Test victory in Australia since 2011 to narrow the series to 3–1.
  • The match ended inside two days after 20 wickets fell on day one, the first such single-day haul in Australian Tests since 1951.
  • Former players criticised the green, seam-friendly MCG surface with around 10mm of grass, and media reports say the pitch could face ICC review.
  • CA chief executive Todd Greenberg said short Tests are “bad for business” and indicated the board may become more involved in pitch decisions after major revenue hits from early finishes.
  • England’s Josh Tongue took 5-45 with Brydon Carse (4-34) and Ben Stokes (3-24) pivotal, Australia’s Michael Neser claimed 4-45, and England quick Gus Atkinson exited with a hamstring issue.