England has finally broken its long-running drought in Australia, securing a memorable victory in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The win, built on a dominant first-innings bowling performance and resilient batting, keeps the series alive heading to Sydney. Here is a detailed rating of every England player's contribution to the drought-breaking triumph.
Top Order Lays the Foundation
The opening partnership set a crucial tone. Haseeb Hameed (20 & 7) showed initial fight in the first innings but will be disappointed with his overall returns, earning a rating of 4/10. His partner, Zak Crawley (12 & 5), struggled against the Australian pace attack and received the lowest mark of the team at 3/10.
At number three, Dawid Malan delivered a vital innings. His first-innings score of 82 from 195 balls was the bedrock of England's total, showcasing patience and skill against a relentless bowling attack. He earns a strong 8/10 for his efforts.
The captain, Joe Root, once again led from the front. While he missed out on a century, his first-innings 50 was a masterclass in technique and temperament under pressure. His proactive leadership in the field was also pivotal, meriting a rating of 8/10.
Middle-Order Steel and Bowling Brilliance
Ben Stokes (25 & 13) battled hard but couldn't produce a match-defining knock with the bat. However, his contribution with the ball was immense, taking the key wickets of David Warner and Steve Smith in the first innings. His never-say-die attitude earns him a 7/10.
The wicketkeeper, Jos Buttler, had a mixed game. His first-innings dismissal for 3 was a disappointment, but he fought valiantly in the second dig with a gritty 11 from 38 balls. His work behind the stumps, including a spectacular catch to dismiss Marcus Harris, was exceptional. He receives a 6/10.
The bowling attack was the undisputed star of the show. James Anderson (4/33 & 2/26) was simply sublime, demonstrating why he is considered a master of his craft. His control and skill in both innings were unmatched, earning a perfect 10/10 rating.
He was brilliantly supported by Ollie Robinson (2/64 & 2/34), whose consistent line and length created constant pressure, and the relentless Mark Wood (3/85 & 2/71), whose express pace provided the crucial cutting edge. Both seamers are awarded 8/10.
Support Acts and Looking Ahead to Sydney
Spinner Jack Leach (1/48 & 0/36) played a containing role effectively on a pace-friendly wicket. While he only took one wicket, his economy was valuable, resulting in a solid 6/10 rating.
The victory in Melbourne has injected fresh belief into the England camp and sets up a fascinating fourth Test in Sydney. The player ratings reflect a team performance where individual contributions, particularly from the veteran pace attack and key batsmen, aligned perfectly to secure a famous win on Australian soil.
England will now travel to the SCG with momentum, knowing that similar collective resolve will be needed to square the series and complete a remarkable comeback in this Ashes campaign.
