The fourth Ashes Test in Melbourne exploded into life on its opening day, with bowlers from both sides capitalizing on a lively pitch to send a staggering 20 wickets tumbling. While England’s batting lineup faltered once more, being dismissed for 110, the day belonged to seamer Josh Tongue, who celebrated a career-best performance.
Tongue, playing in his first Ashes series, spearheaded England’s response by taking five wickets for 45 runs, helping to bowl Australia out for 152. The visitors thus trail by 46 runs after the first innings, with Australia set to resume batting on day two.
“It’s been an amazing day,” Tongue remarked after play. “To take five wickets on Boxing Day at the MCG is a dream come true, especially with family here. The pitch is offering plenty, and as a bowling unit, we focused on hitting the right areas. That fuller length was crucial.”
The dramatic collapse of wickets has placed the state of the Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch under immediate scrutiny. However, Australian bowler Michael Neser, who took key wickets in England’s innings, defended the surface from a bowler’s perspective.
“We know it can be lively early on,” Neser stated. “It might settle as it dries out. I’m not going to complain about it doing a bit—I’m a bowler.”
When questioned about England’s aggressive batting approach, which saw them dismissed in under 30 overs, Tongue supported the team’s philosophy. He highlighted Harry Brook’s contribution as vital within a low total and dismissed any notion of having a psychological hold over Australian captain Steve Smith, whom he dismissed again.
“He’s a world-class player. Getting him out is special, but my job is to treat every batter the same,” Tongue said.
With Australia set to continue their second innings with all wickets intact, day two promises to be pivotal. The pitch’s behavior will be closely watched as both teams battle for a decisive advantage in the series.