🏏 **Root** Ends 18-Test Aussie Drought at MCG

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Key Takeaways

1📊 Root's first Aussie win after 18 Tests, 15 losses since 2011.
2🏆 MCG rout ends England drought; series 3-1 to Australia.
3💡 138 not out Brisbane his only century Down Under.
4🔮 Sydney Test key for Stokes-McCullum retention.
5💬 'Weird' bittersweet win, says Root.

"He hopes that another good week in Sydney can lay the foundations for England's next Ashes tour"

Joe Root finally savored victory Down Under after 18 Tests spanning 12+ years, as England crushed Australia in the 2025-26 Ashes fourth Test at MCG—a two-dayer ending their drought since 2010-11. Trailing 3-1, this win denies a whitewash, mirroring draws at Melbourne 2017-18 and Sydney 2021-22. Root calls it 'weird' yet foundational for future Ashes.

Root's Aussie ledger: 15 losses prior, with a lone 138 not out in Brisbane, but career averages dipped below his 50+ Test norm. Amid Bazball's scrutiny post-three defeats, captain Stokes and coach McCullum praised the resilience, heading to Sydney 3-1 down.

Breaking a Dozen-Year Hex

At his 18th attempt, Root's MCG triumph eclipses prior heartbreaks; his poor returns contrast 2010-11 wins. Stats: England winless in Australia since Andy Flower's era, this MCG rout—England's first since 2011—rivals Ursanbagh 2006 comeback.

Stokes Era Under Fire

Series loss pressures Bazball, but MCG win bolsters cases for Stokes, McCullum, Key. Sydney victory could salvage pride, impacting WTC standings.