Cricket - The Ashes - Australia v England - Fourth Test -  MCG, Melbourne, Australia - December 26, 2025 England's Josh Tongue walks off the field raising the ball after claiming 5 wickets. REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake
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CNBC TV1826-12-2025, 18:43

Ashes Fury: Ex-Players Slam 'Unfair' MCG Pitch After 20 Wickets Tumble

  • 20 wickets fell on the first day of the fourth Ashes test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), sparking widespread criticism.
  • Former England captains Michael Vaughan and Alastair Cook called the pitch "unfair" and "not a great test match wicket" due to excessive movement.
  • England bowled out Australia for 152, then were dismissed for 110, with Australia leading by 46 runs at stumps.
  • Ex-fast bowlers Stuart Broad and Glenn McGrath criticized the pitch for "doing too much" and having "too much grass."
  • McGrath noted that warmer weather could make the pitch better for batting later, potentially aiding England in the fourth innings.

Why It Matters: Former players heavily criticized the MCG pitch as "unfair" after 20 wickets fell on day one of the Ashes test.

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