England endured another bruising day in the Ashes after collapsing to just 110 on the opening day of the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, conceding a 42-run first-innings deficit.
After dismissing Australia for 152 earlier on Friday, England failed to capitalise on favourable conditions. A lively green surface offered pace and seam movement throughout the day, exposing England’s fragile batting line-up once again.
Harry Brook provided rare resistance with a composed 41, but support was scarce. Australia’s bowlers applied relentless pressure, with Michael Neser leading the attack by claiming 4 for 45. Scott Boland added further damage, taking 3 for 30 to keep England firmly on the back foot.
20 wickets fall on Boxing Day in front of a record-breaking crowd! #Ashes
Read more: https://t.co/lpgcbeABU9 pic.twitter.com/e2OdVpTFrB
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 26, 2025Earlier, England captain Ben Stokes made the right call at the toss, inserting Australia under overcast skies. The decision paid early dividends as Australia lost wickets regularly. Openers Travis Head and Jake Weatherald fell cheaply, while Marnus Labuschagne managed only six.
Steve Smith briefly steadied the innings but fell for nine when Josh Tongue knocked back his middle stump, igniting loud celebrations from England supporters in the stands. Australia continued to struggle after lunch, with Usman Khawaja (29), Alex Carey (20) and Cameron Green (17) all departing before the hosts were bowled out.
Read: Ashes 4th Test: England Bowl Australia Out for 152 on Day One
Despite England’s strong start with the ball, their batting woes again proved costly. The tourists, already under scrutiny for limited preparation and off-field distractions earlier in the series, could not withstand Australia’s disciplined pace attack.
Australia have already retained the Ashes following dominant wins in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide. However, the hosts now appear well placed to tighten their grip further in Melbourne, while England face another uphill battle to salvage pride in the series.
