Ben Stokes Celebrates England's Historic Boxing Day Test Victory in Australia

England's Triumph in Melbourne

Melbourne [Australia], December 27: After securing a win in the Boxing Day Test against Australia, England's captain Ben Stokes praised his team's performance, calling it a "satisfying victory" despite the surrounding controversies.

This win marks a significant achievement for England, as it is their first Test victory on Australian soil in a long time, although the Ashes have already been claimed by Australia. Key contributions came from Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell, alongside impressive bowling from Josh Tongue and Brydon Carse, representing the promising future of English cricket. This victory ended an 18-match winless streak for Stokes and Joe Root in Australia, a blemish on their otherwise illustrious careers.

The match was not without its challenges. Following a tough series where England lost while attempting to chase 435 runs in Adelaide, the team's aggressive 'Bazball' style faced criticism. Additionally, their trip to Noosa after a heavy defeat in Brisbane drew negative attention, with allegations of excessive drinking among players, including Ben Duckett and Bethell.

In the post-match presentation, Stokes expressed pride in his team's effort, stating, "It has been a massive effort from everyone, and to come out on the right side of the result feels really special. We play for many people, not just ourselves. The support we receive globally is incredible, and the players thrive on it. I know our fans will be thrilled right now. This win is definitely satisfying. There was a lot happening leading up to this match, but the team's focus and performance speak volumes about their character. Huge credit goes to the players and support staff for maintaining focus on playing good cricket. We knew the chase wouldn't be straightforward."

Stokes emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and not allowing the bowlers to settle, advising his team to hit challenging areas. He praised the balance of intent and discipline shown by the players, noting, "It took courage, but the lads handled it superbly. Seeing young talents like Tongue and Bethell excel is fantastic. Josh was outstanding, taking five wickets on Boxing Day in front of a large crowd. Every time he wears the England shirt, he gives his all. Bethell's partnership in tough conditions was also crucial."

In the match, England won the toss and chose to bowl first. Josh Tongue achieved a historic feat by taking England's first-ever Boxing Day Test five-wicket haul at the MCG, dismissing Australia for 152 runs in 45.2 overs. Michael Neser (35 runs) and Usman Khawaja (29 runs) were the top scorers for Australia, with Neser contributing to a half-century partnership with Cameron Green (17) before a run-out triggered a collapse.

England struggled in their first innings, bowled out for 110 runs in 29.5 overs, with Harry Brook (41 runs) and Gus Atkinson (28 runs) being the notable scorers. The combination of England's aggressive approach faltering and the challenging pitch conditions allowed Neser (4/45) and Scott Boland (3/30) to claim easy wickets, leaving England trailing by 42 runs.

In their second innings, Australia again failed to make a significant impact, with only Travis Head (46 runs) and Steve Smith (24* runs) surpassing 20 runs as England bowled them out for 132 runs in 34.3 overs. Australia set a target of 175 runs for England to chase. Brydon Carse (4/34) and Stokes (3/24) were the standout bowlers for England.

During the chase, England began strongly with a half-century partnership between Zak Crawley (37 runs) and Ben Duckett (34 runs), followed by a 47-run partnership between Crawley and Jacob Bethell (40 runs). Although Australia fought back, reducing England from 112/2 to 165/6, Harry Brook (18*) and Jamie Smith (3*) ultimately led their team to a memorable victory.