Should Fans Celebrate England's Ashes Victory?
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Synopsis
England's surprising two-day win against Australia in the Ashes 2025-26 has stirred controversy over pitch conditions and the quality of play. Former captain Michael Vaughan questions the merit of celebration, while Stuart Broad highlights mixed feelings among fans. Can this victory change perceptions in the ongoing series? Find out more in our detailed analysis.
Key Takeaways
- England achieved a notable two-day victory over Australia.
- The pitch conditions at the MCG sparked debate regarding quality of play.
- Michael Vaughan criticized the celebration of the win due to match quality.
- Stuart Broad noted mixed feelings among fans regarding the significance of the victory.
- Australia leads the series 3-1 as the action moves to Sydney.
Melbourne, Dec 27 (NationPress) England's thrilling victory over Australia in the fourth Test of the Ashes 2025-26 series, which concluded in just two days, has sparked intense discussions regarding the green pitch at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Former captain Michael Vaughan expressed that while the outcome is worthy of celebration, the standard of cricket displayed should not be celebrated by fans. “A win is a win, and England should celebrate, but NO Test cricket fans should be celebrating what we have seen for 2 days .. #Ashes,” he remarked on his ‘X’ account on Saturday.
The pitch, which retained 10mm of grass, led to a staggering 36 wickets falling over six sessions at the MCG. England's four-wicket victory marked their first Test win in Australia in 14 years, as they bowled out Australia for 132 in their second innings, setting a target of 175 which they achieved after losing six wickets.
Meanwhile, England’s legendary fast bowler Stuart Broad mentioned that the win in Melbourne was too late to influence the overall Ashes result. He commented that the four-wicket victory would resonate more with the traveling fans and the players rather than with the supporters back in England.
“I think the reaction will be somewhat mixed. English fans here will feel a mix of joy witnessing an away victory, singing their songs, and enjoying drinks with friends. This will be a positive experience for those in Australia and the traveling English fans,” he stated.
“However, there may be a feeling back home that this is too little, too late, especially since Australia has already secured a 3-0 lead following last week’s match in Adelaide. If Australia hadn’t been ahead, would Pat Cummins have played? Would they have fielded a stronger team?”
“Ultimately, these players can take pride in having won a Test match in Australia despite facing a harsh series. It’s unusual to have two Test matches finish in just two days; it’s remarkable,” he added during a discussion on SEN Radio.
Currently, Australia leads the 2025/26 Ashes series 3-1, with the contest moving to Sydney for the traditional New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground starting January 4.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize both the significance of England's victory and the concerns raised by experts like Vaughan. The rapid conclusion of the match raises questions about pitch conditions and the overall quality of the sport. As we continue to follow the series, it's important to balance celebration with critical analysis.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the fourth Test in the Ashes 2025-26?
England secured a stunning two-day victory over Australia, marking their first Test win in Australia in 14 years.
What did Michael Vaughan say about the quality of cricket?
Vaughan expressed that while England's win is worth celebrating, the quality of cricket displayed during the match should not be celebrated by Test cricket fans.
How many wickets fell during the match at the MCG?
A total of 36 wickets fell in just six sessions due to the green pitch conditions.
What is Stuart Broad's opinion on the victory?
Broad believes that the win came too late to influence the overall Ashes series and that it would resonate more with traveling fans than with those back home.
What is the current status of the Ashes series?
Australia currently leads the 2025/26 Ashes series 3-1, with the next Test set to take place in Sydney.
