Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin recently shared his thoughts on the fourth Ashes Test of 2025-26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), describing it as a “racing thriller movie” due to its dramatic finish in just two days.
The MCG Test saw 20 wickets fall on Day 1 as both Australia and England were bowled out once each. The seam movement on offer made it challenging for both teams, with Australia setting a target of 175 for England to chase after a narrow lead. Despite England already losing the Ashes, they managed to secure a tense four-wicket victory.
In a video uploaded on his YouTube channel ‘Ashwin,’ the veteran cricketer addressed the pitch debate, emphasizing the need for fair assessment of pitch conditions across different countries. Ashwin acknowledged the entertainment value of the MCG pitch but highlighted the importance of avoiding double standards in pitch criticism.
Ashwin also commended England seamer Brydon Carse for his unplayable delivery that dismissed Travis Head on Day 2, further emphasizing the difficult nature of the pitch. He questioned the tactic of producing a lively pitch that could potentially skew the game in favor of a particular team.
Reflecting on England’s batting prowess and bowling shortcomings, Ashwin pointed out their ability to pressure opponents with aggressive strokeplay but noted their struggles in maintaining consistent bowling threats over extended periods. He praised England’s batting display in the fourth innings at MCG but raised concerns about their bowling tooth for sustained challenges.
The fifth and final Ashes Test is scheduled to begin on January 4 in Sydney, setting the stage for another exciting chapter in the historic rivalry between Australia and England. Ashwin’s insights provide a unique perspective on the dynamics of Test cricket and the evolving strategies employed by teams to gain a competitive edge in the sport.
