A historic collapse and a world record crowd marked an unforgettable first day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where 20 wickets fell in a single day of an ash test for the For the first time since 1902.
A day of unprecedented carnage at the MCG
On a dramatic Boxing Day, England’s Josh Tongue (5-45) tore through Australia’s top order, helping the hosts to a lead of just 152. However, England fared even worse as they were beaten by Michael Neser (4-45) and Scott Boland for an equal 110.
Despite the collapse, the first innings total was enough for Australia to take a lead of 42 runs. After stumps, Australia were 4/0 in the second innings, extending their overall lead to 46 in a game where the outcome now depends on each session.
Records tumble in front of the record audience
The hectic day of play took place in front of a world record 94,199 cricket spectators on a single day at the MCG, surpassing the previous mark set at the 2015 World Cup final. The 20 wickets also set a new record for a Boxing Day Test.
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This remarkable statistic has not been seen in an England-Australia Test in Australia for 123 years, most recently in the 1901/02 season in Melbourne. The all-time Test record for first day wickets remains 27, set at Lord’s in 1888.
Key achievements define chaos
England’s defense was led by Josh Tongue, who took a career-best five-wicket haul, including the valuable scalp of captain Steve Smith. “Getting him out is a really special feeling,” Tongue said. For Australia, all-rounder Michael Neser played with both the bat (a crucial 35) and the ball.
England’s innings saw a brief counterattack from Harry Brook (41 off 34 balls), but regular wickets ensured the day belonged entirely to the bowlers. With the series already decided in Australia’s favour, this historic day ensures the final two Tests remain closely contested.
Sources:
This report is based on match coverage and statistics from ESPNcricinfo, the world’s leading digital cricket platform.
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