In the fourth Test of the ongoing five-match Ashes series between Australia and England, the English team secured a victory on the second day, losing only six wickets. England chased down the target of 175 runs with four wickets to spare. However, this defeat did not affect the series outcome, as Australia had already secured an unassailable lead by winning the first three Tests. With this win, England finally tasted victory and the series stands at 3-1. Moreover, England has won a Test against Australia in Australia after 14 years and 11 months. England’s last Test win down under was in January 2011.

This is the first Test win for the English team in Australia since then. In the 2013/14 Ashes series on Australian soil, the Aussies won 5-0. In the 2017/18 Ashes series in Australia, the hosts won 4-0. In the 2021/22 series on their home ground, the Australian team won 4-0. Thus, England broke Australia’s streak of 18 consecutive Test wins against them.

Root and Stokes’ first Test win in Australia

While this is the first Test win in Australia for many players in the current England team, it holds special significance for Ben Stokes and Joe Root. This is their first Test win on Australian soil in what could be perhaps their last series in Australia. Previously, on every tour to Australia, both of them had either faced defeat or the matches ended in a draw. On the first day, England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and elected to bowl first. His decision was justified by the English bowlers, who dismissed the Australian team for 152 runs. In reply, England’s first innings ended at 110 runs. This gave Australia a lead of 42 runs. Australia was then bowled out for 132 runs in 34.3 overs in their second innings. Adding the 42-run lead, Australia’s total lead was 174 runs.