Australia secured a 46-run lead over England after a frenetic first day of the fourth Ashes Test in Melbourne, where a record 20 wickets fell on a green pitch that favored bowlers. This chaotic day saw both teams struggle with the bat, highlighting the dominance of pace bowling and setting the stage for a potentially short Test match.
On a Boxing Day marked by cricketing mayhem, Australia were bowled out for 152 after England won the toss and elected to bowl. Josh Tongue was the standout for the tourists, claiming 5-45 with a disciplined length that troubled the Australian batsmen. Key wickets included Steve Smith, bowled by a superb delivery, and a collapse that saw Australia lose their last three wickets for no runs in four balls. England’s improved bowling performance, supported by efficient fielding, initially gave them the upper hand.
However, England’s batting failed to capitalize, as they were skittled for 110 in just 29.5 overs. Harry Brook provided a brief counterattack with a brisk 41, including two sixes, but his dismissal triggered a collapse where England lost five wickets for 25 runs. Only Ben Stokes (16) and Gus Atkinson (28) offered resistance, with the latter’s innings helping England avoid complete humiliation. The pitch, with 10mm of grass left on it, proved challenging for batsmen throughout the day.
Australia’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Michael Neser taking 4-45 and Scott Boland 3-30, exploiting the conditions effectively. Mitchell Starc contributed two early wickets, setting the tone for England’s top-order collapse. Boland’s role was particularly notable as he later survived a tense over as nightwatchman in Australia’s second innings, adding to the day’s drama.
The conditions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground were a major talking point, with the pitch offering significant assistance to the seamers. This led to questions about whether the surface was too difficult for batting, but it undoubtedly made for compelling cricket. The record crowd of 94,199 spectators witnessed the action, creating a pulsating atmosphere that added to the intensity of the day.
This performance leaves England’s Ashes tour in further crisis, following their surrender of the series in the first three Tests. The possibility of a two-day Test match looms, reminiscent of the Perth Test earlier in the series, which could have financial implications for Cricket Australia. England will need a dramatic turnaround to avoid a whitewash in the series.
Looking ahead, Australia will resume on 4-0 in their second innings, with a 46-run lead and all wickets intact. The focus will be on whether they can build a substantial lead and bowl England out quickly to secure victory. For England, the task is to find a way to bat more responsibly on a pitch that continues to favor the bowlers, hoping to salvage some pride from a disastrous tour.
