US EditionFormer Players Slam 'Unfair' MCG Pitch as Wickets Tumble in Fourth Ashes Test
The pitch at the Melbourne Cricket Ground had 10mm of grass, causing excessive seam movement and a record 20 wickets on Day 1, raising concerns among experts and fans.
- On December 26, 2025, the Melbourne Cricket Ground saw twenty wickets fall on opening day of the Boxing Day Test, prompting cricket greats from Australia and England to question the pitch's quality.
- Commentators noted the extra covering as groundsmen left 10mm of grass on the pitch versus 7mm last year, which critics said increased seam and pace movement.
- After bowling Australia 152, England were dismissed for 110 in 29.5 overs, with Michael Neser and Scott Boland bowling well and the average score per wicket 13.1.
- With days two and three sold out, the Test may finish early, risking at least £1.5million in ticket sales for Cricket Australia and broadcasters.
- Former players criticised the wicket, with Kerry O'Keeffe saying, 'Fast bowler friendly pitches have been produced for the last season and a half and the bottom line is, Australia wins on them because of their fast bowling cartel.
26 Articles
26 Articles
MCG pitch rated 'unsatisfactory' after chaotic Ashes test
MELBOURNE, Dec 29 : The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch for the Boxing Day test between Australia and England has been given an "unsatisfactory" rating after 20 wickets fell in the first three sessions and the match was wrapped up inside two days.England won the low-scoring fourth Ashes test by four w
'Doing too much': Experts criticise pitch at MCG after whirlwind opening day of Boxing Day Test
The Boxing Day Test of the Ashes 2025-26 series saw Australia and England take on each other at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The clash began with Australia coming in to bat first, and the side was unable to put in a good showing with the bat, getting bundled out for just 152 runs. While England hoped for a good showing with the bat in their first innings, the side crumbled under Australia’s brilliant bowling attack as well. England were bundle…
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