New Delhi, 27 December. England ended their long wait for a Test victory on Australian soil, their first since 2011, by winning the fourth Ashes Test in Melbourne by four wickets. Although the series was already lost, this win is a significant boost for England’s confidence.
England captain Ben Stokes expressed his joy after the victory, saying, “It feels really good to win. Everyone worked very hard for this. This win is very special. We play not just for ourselves but for many people. Wherever we go in the world, we receive tremendous support. The cheers and chants are something we all hear and feel. I know many of our fans must be very excited right now.”
Stokes added, “A lot happened before this match, but the way the boys took the field, stayed focused, and performed speaks volumes about this team. Credit to the players, support staff, and management for concentrating on what mattered. We knew this was not an easy chase; the pitch offered a lot, and the bowlers were always in the game. The message was to stay positive, not let the bowlers settle, and keep running hard into tough areas to hit. I thought the intent and discipline we showed was outstanding. It took courage, and the boys handled it very well.”
He praised Josh Tong, who took five wickets in the first innings, and Jacob Bethell, who scored 40 runs in the second innings.
In the match, England won the toss and chose to bowl first. Australia was dismissed for 152 runs in their first innings. England could manage only 110 runs in reply, trailing by 42 runs. Australia’s second innings ended at 132 runs. England was set a target of 175 runs and achieved it by scoring 178 for six wickets, winning by four wickets. Josh Tong, who took seven wickets in the match, was named Player of the Match.