Australia and England battle on Day One of Fourth Ashes Test at MCG
The fourth Ashes Test began on Boxing Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground with a substantial crowd of 94,199 spectators in attendance.
England won the toss and chose to field first. Josh Tongue delivered an impressive bowling performance, dismissing Australia for 152 runs in their first innings, finishing with figures of 5-45.
In response, England faltered early, losing four wickets for just 16 runs and were eventually all out for 110. Mark Neser was England's most effective bowler, taking 4-45. Harry Brook top-scored with 41, though Joe Root survived only 15 balls before being dismissed for a duck, the longest duck of his career.
Australia held a first-innings lead of 42 runs and by the close of Day 1 were 4-0 in their second innings, 46 runs ahead.
Mitchell Starc played a key role in destabilizing the England batting lineup, including the dismissal of Ben Duckett. Mitchell Neser contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 35 runs and taking 4-45.
Scott Boland ended the day with bowling figures of 3-30 and was also utilized as an auxiliary opening batter on a green-tinged pitch known for its abundant movement.
