### Boxing Day Test: A Historic Day of Bowling Dominance at the MCG The Boxing Day Test between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on December 26, 2025, marked a historic day in cricket, with a total of **20 wickets falling**—the first time this has occurred on the opening day of an Ashes Test since 1902. England's bowlers, led by Josh Tongue, initially dominated, dismissing Australia for a mere **152 runs**. However, England's batting response was equally dismal, as they were bowled out for just **110**, handing Australia a **46-run lead** at the end of Day 1. This chaotic day of cricket has set the stage for an intriguing continuation of the series, with both teams showcasing their bowling prowess in a match that has already shattered records. ### Breakdown of the Day's Events 1. **Bowling Dominance**: - Australia was bowled out for **152 runs** in their first innings, with Josh Tongue taking **5 wickets for 45 runs** [https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/ashes-australia-all-out-for-152-in-boxing-day-test/story]. - England's response was equally poor, as they were dismissed for **110 runs**, with Australia’s bowlers, including Scott Boland and Michael Neser, also performing exceptionally well [https://www.india.com/sports/ashes-2025-boxing-day-test-england-hand-advantage-back-to-australia-on-20-wicket-opening-day-at-mcg-8245574]. 2. **Record-Breaking Day**: - The day saw **20 wickets fall**, a record for a Boxing Day Test, surpassing the previous record of **18 wickets** in the 1998 Ashes match [https://www.moneycontrol.com/sports/cricket/20-wickets-fall-on-a-record-breaking-day-1-of-fourth-ashes-test-article-13743600.html]. - A record crowd of **94,199 fans** witnessed this historic day, adding to the atmosphere of the match [https://newsblare.com/sports/record-94199-fans-see-20-wickets-fall-on-epic-boxing-day-ashes-day-1]. 3. **Key Performers**: - Josh Tongue was the standout bowler for England, taking **3 early wickets** and later completing his five-wicket haul [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/cricket/josh-tongue-takes-three-wickets-as-england-claim-early-boxing-day-advantage/a1030534916.html]. - For Australia, Scott Boland and Michael Neser played crucial roles in dismantling the English batting lineup [https://www.newsonradar.com/ashes-4th-test-england-pacer-tongue-aussie-quicks-boland-neser-shine-on-bowling-paradise-at-mcg-as-england-trails-by-42-runs-day-1-stumps]. ### Summary of Findings - **Historic Performance**: The first day of the Boxing Day Test was marked by unprecedented bowling performances, with **20 wickets falling**, a record for the occasion. - **Match Status**: At the end of Day 1, Australia leads by **46 runs**, having capitalized on England's batting collapse after their own initial struggles. - **Implications for the Series**: This match has set a dramatic tone for the remainder of the Ashes series, with both teams demonstrating the potential for explosive bowling and batting collapses. In conclusion, the Boxing Day Test has not only provided thrilling cricket but has also rewritten records, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the sport. As the series progresses, both teams will need to adapt quickly to the conditions and the pressure of the Ashes rivalry.