England Strike Back, Then Stumble

In a dramatic opening day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, England first skittled Australia for 152, only to suffer an early batting collapse of their own, slipping to 91 for 9 in reply. The fourth Test of the Ashes saw England win the toss and opt to bowl on a helpful surface. Their seamers delivered immediately, dismissing Australia in 45.2 overs with relentless discipline. Australia’s resistance was limited. All-rounder Michael Neser top-scored with 35, while Usman Khawaja made 29. A brief lower-order stand featured Cameron Green (17). Among the rest, Alex Carey chipped in with 20, while Travis Head (12) and Jake Weatherald (10) provided modest starts. Marnus Labuschagne managed just 6, and Steve Smith fell for 9. Leading England’s charge, fast bowler Josh Tongue claimed an impressive five for 45 to register a Boxing Day five-for at the MCG. Gus Atkinson supported him with two wickets, while Brydon Carse and captain Ben Stokes took one apiece to wrap up the innings. England’s reply, however, began shakily.



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