England Ends Winless Streak in Australia with Boxing Day Test Victory
England's Remarkable Comeback at MCG
At the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), England managed to break their 18-match winless streak in Australia by clinching a four-wicket victory over the hosts on the second day of the Boxing Day Test. Despite facing defeat in the Ashes series, this win prevented Australia from achieving a clean sweep. England had struggled to secure a win on Australian soil since their last Ashes triumph in the 2010/11 series.
Key Performers Shine for England
Following their Ashes loss, the English team played with pride, showcasing impressive performances from players like Josh Tongue, who took five wickets, and Brydon Carse, who claimed four in the second innings. Batters Harry Brook and Jacob Bethel also made significant contributions, scoring 41 and 40 runs respectively in their innings. England began the final session at 77/2, with Zak Crawley (22*) and Jacob Bethel (9*) at the crease.
Chasing Down the Target
Bethel continued to chase the target of 175 runs aggressively, hitting a stunning drive over extra cover off Scott Boland's delivery on the second ball of the session. The duo of Crawley and Bethel helped England reach the 100-run mark in just 15.5 overs. However, their partnership of 47 runs ended when Crawley was dismissed for 37 runs, having faced 48 balls with three fours and a six, leaving England at 112/3 after 18.4 overs.
Crucial Moments in the Chase
Bethel continued his innings alongside the experienced Joe Root. Unfortunately, an unnecessary drive at a ball around the off-stump line led to Bethel's dismissal, caught easily by Usman Khawaja at cover. He scored 40 runs off 46 balls, hitting six fours, and England's score fell to 137/4 after 24.3 overs. England crossed the 150-run mark in 27.2 overs, aided by a powerful shot from Brook over mid-off. However, Root's struggles continued as he managed only 15 runs in 38 overs, contributing to England losing half their side for 158 runs in 28.4 overs. As England needed just 10 runs for victory, Stark dismissed captain Ben Stokes, caught by wicketkeeper Alex Carey, for just two runs off nine balls, leaving England at 165/6 in 31.2 overs.