Melbourne, Dec 27 (NationPress) Joe Root expressed that England has demonstrated its genuine character and courage with the bat, achieving a significant milestone by winning their first Test match on Australian soil since 2011. They triumphed over Australia by four wickets in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

This victory marks England's first Test series win in Australia since January 2011 at the SCG. Additionally, it was Joe Root's inaugural Test win on Australian soil after 18 matches, while skipper Ben Stokes secured his first win in Australia after 13 Tests.

“To lose the series is certainly disappointing, but it was crucial for us to display a lot of character for the remainder of the series,” Root stated in an interview with Isa Guha post-match. “Our team has faced numerous challenges... it was undoubtedly a fast-paced Test match due to the surface we played on, but we adapted as best as we could and capitalized on the opportunities presented to us.”

England completed the fourth Test match of the Ashes in under two days, successfully chasing the necessary 175 runs in just 32.2 overs on day two, even though the Ashes trophy remains elusive. The match was heavily influenced by fast bowlers from both sides, with the pitch favoring them, as spinners did not bowl any overs.

England set the tone early by opting to bowl first on a grass-covered pitch, quickly rewarded when Josh Tongue led the attack and took five wickets, dismissing Australia for 152 in their first innings. Australia retaliated strongly, bowling England out for only 110 runs in their first innings, taking a 42-run lead into the second innings with Michael Neser claiming four wickets and Scott Boland three.

Entering the second day, Australia seemed to be in control, having not lost a wicket in their second innings. However, day two saw Brydon Carse disrupt the flow by taking down top-scorer Travis Head (46), triggering a collapse where Australia lost four wickets for just 37 runs, concluding their innings with Steve Smith remaining not out on 24.

In pursuit of 175 runs, England adopted an aggressive approach from the outset, with Duckett and Crawley both playing positively. Duckett scored 34 runs off just 26 balls, while Crawley contributed a brisk 37 runs. After back-to-back dismissals of Root and Stokes, Australia appeared to regain momentum briefly; however, England retained control, with Jacob Bethell scoring a commendable 40 and Harry Brook finishing not out on 18, leading England to victory.

“We exhibited bravery today in our batting approach, which is why we won the Test match,” Root remarked. “Having faced many defeats here, I know what to expect and how formidable Australia is in their home conditions. Achieving this victory today is fantastic, and I hope we can build on this next week.”

The series now shifts to Sydney for the fifth and final Test, commencing January 4.