### Australia Takes Control in Dramatic Fourth Ashes Test Amidst Bowling Dominance The fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has unfolded dramatically, showcasing a remarkable display of bowling prowess from both teams. On the first day, a staggering **20 wickets fell**, marking one of the most chaotic starts to an Ashes match in recent history. Australia, after being bowled out for **152 runs**, managed to dismiss England for just **110**, giving them a **46-run lead**. As the second day commenced, Australia found themselves at **98 for 6**, extending their overall lead to **140 runs** despite losing six wickets in the morning session alone. The match has drawn a record crowd of **94,199 spectators**, highlighting the intense rivalry and excitement surrounding the Ashes series [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/australia-98-6-lunch-lead-140-runs-in-fourth-ashes-test-5724361][https://www.nation.com.pk/27-Dec-2025/20-wickets-fall-dramatic-opening-day-boxing-day-ashes-test]. ### Breakdown of the Match Dynamics 1. **Day One Overview**: - Australia was bowled out for **152 runs** in **45.2 overs**. - England's Josh Tongue took a remarkable **5 for 45**, dismantling Australia's batting lineup [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/australia-bowled-out-152-in-fourth-ashes-test-5709321]. - England's response was equally dismal, collapsing to **110 runs** in **29.5 overs**, with only Harry Brook providing resistance with **41 runs** [https://www.deccanchronicle.com/sports/cricket/ashes-boxing-day-test-england-strike-back-then-stumble-1926376]. 2. **Day Two Developments**: - Australia resumed their second innings at **4 for no loss** but quickly lost wickets, reaching **98 for 6** at lunch. - Key players like Steve Smith and Cameron Green were at the crease, but the pressure from England's bowlers remained high [https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/sports/ashes-4th-test-aussies-lose-six-wickets-england-smell-opportunity-of-snapping-winless-streak-in-australia-day-2-lunch]. 3. **Bowling Performance**: - The match has been characterized by exceptional bowling performances, particularly from Tongue and Australia's Michael Neser, who took **4 wickets** in England's innings [https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/australia-s-michael-neser-shines-in-4th-ashes-test/story]. ### Key Statistics and Highlights - **First Innings Scores**: - Australia: **152 all out** (Neser 35, Tongue 5-45) - England: **110 all out** (Brook 41, Neser 4-45, Boland 3-30) - **Second Innings (as of lunch on Day 2)**: - Australia: **98 for 6** (Smith 16*, Green 6*) - **Overall Lead**: Australia leads by **140 runs** [https://www.deccanchronicle.com/sports/cricket/six-australia-wickets-fall-as-england-fight-back-in-4th-ashes-test-1926550]. ### Conclusion: A Test of Resilience and Skill The fourth Ashes Test has turned into a gripping contest, with both teams showcasing their bowling capabilities. **Australia's current position at 98 for 6** indicates a precarious situation as they aim to set a challenging target for England. The match's dynamics suggest that the outcome remains uncertain, with England sensing an opportunity to capitalize on Australia's batting struggles. As the game progresses, the focus will be on whether Australia can stabilize their innings and extend their lead further, or if England can mount a comeback to break their winless streak in Australia [https://www.nine.com.au/sport/cricket/the-ashes-boxing-day-test-2025-20-wickets-fall-day-one-wrap-scott-boland-australia-england-20251226-p5nq78.html].