Melbourne Test Ends in Two Days: Curator Reflects on Dramatic Ashes Match

The fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground concluded in just two days, with England defeating Australia by four wickets. Curator Matt Page took responsibility for the seam-friendly pitch conditions that led to the rapid match conclusion. He expressed shock at the 20 wickets that fell on the first day and acknowledged the need for improvement in future matches. This victory allowed England to salvage some pride in the series, which Australia had already clinched. As attention turns to the final Test in Sydney, England aims to build on their success.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 28, 2025, 13:08 IST

Curator's Insights on the Short Ashes Test

Matt Page, the curator of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, has addressed the swift conclusion of the fourth Ashes Test of the 2025-26 series, which wrapped up in just two days. He took responsibility for the pitch conditions that led to England's four-wicket victory over Australia, preventing a series whitewash.

Page emphasized the importance of seam movement at the MCG, cautioning that a lack of it could render the pitch dull and unexciting. He pointed out that excessive grass removal would create a flat surface, which would not be advantageous for players or fans.

He stated, "Without seam movement at the MCG, the game becomes very dull and lifeless, which is detrimental to players, spectators, and the sport itself."

The first day of the match was particularly astonishing, with 20 wickets falling, leaving Page in disbelief. "I was shocked after witnessing 20 wickets fall in a single day. I’ve never experienced a Test match like this, and I hope to never again," he confessed.

Despite the thrilling nature of the match, Page acknowledged that it concluded too quickly and expressed a commitment to learn from this experience. "While we created an engaging Test, it didn’t last long enough. We will take responsibility for this, learn from it, and ensure improvements for next year," he remarked.

This match marked only the seventh Ashes Test to finish within two days and is recorded as the fourth shortest in terms of balls bowled.

England, who were already down 0-3 in the series, managed to restore some pride with this victory at the MCG. After bowling first, they dismissed Australia for 152 runs in their first innings. England was bowled out for 110 runs, but their bowlers retaliated, dismissing Australia for 132 runs in the second innings.

Chasing a target of 175 runs, England successfully reached 179 for six in just 32.2 overs, securing a four-wicket win. This result dashed Australia’s hopes of a clean sweep, although they had already secured the series with victories in the first three Tests.

Looking ahead, the focus shifts to the fifth and final Test, set to commence on January 4 at the Sydney Cricket Ground, where England aims to capitalize on their Melbourne triumph and finish the series on a positive note.