20 Wickets Fall on Opening Day as Australia Edge Ahead at the MCG

Twenty wickets fell on the opening day of the 4th Ashes Test at the MCG, the most on day one of an Ashes match since 1909, as bowlers dominated on a green surface that offered movement throughout.

Australia finished the day at 4 without loss in their second innings, holding a 46-run lead after both sides were bowled out cheaply in a day that rarely allowed batters to settle.

England’s Call Pays Off Early

England’s decision to bowl after winning the toss appeared vindicated almost immediately. 

The pitch offered seam movement, and Australia didn't find any rhythm against the new ball.

Josh Tongue led England’s attack with a career-best return of 5 for 45, exploiting the conditions with pace and control. Wickets fell steadily through the morning, and partnerships never developed.

Australia were dismissed for 152 in 45.2 overs, and the top order failed to convert starts; the innings was held together largely by Michael Neser, whose 35 from No. 9 was the highest score.

Australia Hit Back Hard

Any advantage England gained with the ball was swiftly undone by their batting. Australia’s seamers struck early and repeatedly, exposing England’s top order to the same difficulties faced earlier in the day.

England were reduced to 16 for 4 in just eight overs, with movement off the seam proving too much to handle. Neser followed his batting contribution with figures of 4 for 45, while consistently drawing edges.

Scott Boland added control and pressure, taking 3 for 30, while Mitchell Starc’s pace accounted for two wickets.

Brook Offers Brief Resistance

Harry Brook provided England’s only meaningful resistance with a counter-attacking 41, attempting to shift momentum. His intent briefly lifted the scoring rate, but support was limited at the other end.

Once Brook fell, the innings folded quickly, and England were bowled out for 110 in 29.5 overs. This is their lowest test total in the Bazball era, conceding a first-innings deficit of 42.

Australia Close with Narrow Advantage

Australia negotiated the final over of the day without further loss, reaching 4 for 0 at stumps. While the lead remains modest, the day belonged firmly to the bowlers.

With the pitch still offering movement and little sign of easing, batting is expected to remain challenging. Day two promises more swings in momentum in a Test already moving at an unusual pace.