England captain Ben Stokes expressed that it felt “really special” to emerge victorious in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, praising his team’s focus and intensity.
England ended a 14-year wait for a Test match win in Australia, securing a four-wicket triumph on the second day of play in Melbourne. This result marked a significant turnaround after three consecutive defeats and growing scrutiny over the team’s preparation and conduct during their mid-series break in Noosa.
“It’s been a massive effort from everyone, and to come out on the right side of the result feels really special. Hopefully, it means a lot. We play for a lot of people – not just ourselves. The support we get, wherever we go in the world, is incredible,” Stokes said after the match.
England bowled Australia out for 132 in their second innings, setting themselves a target of 175 runs, which they completed while losing six wickets. “Definitely very satisfying. There was a fair bit going on in the build-up to this match, a lot being thrown our way. For the lads to come out, stay focused, and perform the way they did says a lot about the character in this team.
“Huge credit to the players, support staff, and management for keeping everyone locked in on what mattered – playing good cricket. We knew it wasn’t going to be a straightforward chase. The pitch had plenty in it, and the bowlers were always in the game.
“The message was to stay positive, not let the bowlers settle, and make them keep running in and hitting those tough areas. I thought the way we balanced intent with discipline was brilliant. It took courage, but the lads handled it superbly,” he elaborated.
The standout performers for England included pacer Josh Tongue, who recorded figures of 5-45 and 2-44, while young batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell top-scored with 40 in the successful chase. “Josh has been outstanding. To come out on Boxing Day in front of a massive crowd and take five wickets, that’s something really special.
“Every time he’s pulled on an England shirt, he’s given everything. Bethell as well – the partnership he helped build in tricky conditions was really important. Seeing younger players stand up in moments like this is fantastic,” Stokes concluded.