Former England captain Nasser Hussain has emphasised the profound significance of England's victory in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), stating that such consolation wins hold real value for players and supporters alike.
More Than Just a Consolation: A Win for Legacy and Fans
Hussain, writing in his column for 'The Athletic', argued that the win on Saturday, December 27, 2025, carried deep meaning. He highlighted that it was particularly important for captain Ben Stokes and batting mainstay Joe Root, ensuring their storied careers would not end without a Test victory on Australian soil. "Consolation wins do matter," Hussain wrote. "This victory will be especially important to Ben Stokes and Joe Root, two of England’s great cricketers. For them to have ended their careers without a Test victory in Australia – and I don’t know if they will be back next time — would have been a great shame."
The 57-year-old also pointed out that the triumph was a gift to the loyal England fanbase. This was England's first Test win in Australia since the 2010-11 series, ending a painful 15-year drought for travelling supporters. "It will mean a lot to England supporters who have been through 15 years of pain watching Tests in Australia," he added.
Praise for England's Positive Approach in Melbourne
Hussain analysed that England executed their plans well on a challenging MCG pitch. He reserved special praise for Harry Brook, whose aggressive intent in the first innings set a crucial tone. "Harry Brook, for instance, set the tone perfectly in the first innings by taking the attack to Australia," Hussain noted.
He explained that Brook's decision to charge down the pitch to Mitchell Starc's first ball, with England reeling at 8 for 3, was a calculated and brave move on a surface offering significant movement. Hussain contrasted this with Joe Root's more cautious approach, which resulted in a 15-ball duck, suggesting Brook's proactive method was the correct one for the conditions.
Bethell's Composed Debut and Looking Ahead
The former skipper was also impressed by debutant Jacob Bethell's contribution in the second innings. Chasing a target of 175, Bethell played a key role in securing the win. "I liked how composed Bethell was on a really difficult pitch in front of more than 90,000 people," Hussain observed.
He urged the team management to show patience with the young player, stating that Bethell needs a consistent run in the side and more experience in red-ball cricket to develop fully. Hussain's analysis underscores that while the Ashes urn was already retained by Australia, the Melbourne victory provides a vital foundation of confidence and a positive legacy for a transitioning England team.
