The Ashes 2025 LIVE: Australia vs England, fourth Test, Melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights
The Ashes 2025 LIVE: Australia vs England, fourth Test, Melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights
The intensity is palpable. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has delivered yet another classic Ashes spectacle. As Day 3 of the Fourth Test commences, the series hangs finely balanced, with Australia holding a narrow, but vital, lead following a compelling first innings exchange.
For those of us who have witnessed the Boxing Day Test firsthand, the sheer volume and history encapsulated in the MCG are overwhelming. I remember standing high in the stands during the 2017 series, feeling the ground shake with every boundary struck by Steve Smith. Today, the stakes feel even higher. This Test is not just about the Urn; it is about momentum, pride, and cementing a psychological edge heading into the final match in Sydney.
England, led by the aggressive Ben Stokes, desperately need a win here to level the series and keep their Ashes dream alive. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins' formidable Australian squad is pushing for the knockout blow, aiming to retain the Urn on home soil early.
Follow along for the instant, session-by-session cricket score updates, expert analysis, and details on where you can listen to the radio commentary or stream the full highlights package.
LIVE SCOREBOARD: Day Three Drama Unfolds at the MCG
We are currently deep into the afternoon session of Day 3. The pitch, which initially favored swing and seam movement on Day 1, has now flattened out, challenging the English bowlers to find inventive ways to penetrate the Australian middle order. The key battle today centers on Australia's resilience after a slightly shaky start this morning.
The pressure is squarely on the batsmen to maximize this period before the second new ball becomes available. Every run earned is precious, chipping away at England's morale and building an insurmountable total.
Current Status (Tea Break Update):
- Australia 1st Innings: 398 all out
- England 1st Innings: 312 all out
- Australia 2nd Innings: 157/3 (Lead by 243 runs)
- Current Batting Pair: Steve Smith (45*) & Travis Head (22*)
- Bowling Star of the Session: James Anderson (Figures of 1/19 off 10 overs this session)
The English bowlers started the day brightly, claiming the vital early wickets of Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, both falling victim to brilliant, swinging deliveries from veteran Jimmy Anderson and the pace of Mark Wood. However, the subsequent partnership between Smith and Head has stabilized the innings. Smith, demonstrating the technical brilliance we expect in a Boxing Day Test, looks immovable.
Australia's aim is clear: bat deep into Day 4 and set England a target well over 400. If they succeed, the pressure on England's fragile batting line-up will be immense.
The match momentum swung decisively just before lunch when Travis Head survived a very close Decision Review System (DRS) appeal. Had that been overturned, England would have been roaring back into contention. That narrow margin epitomizes the high-stakes drama of the Ashes.
LSI Keyword Focus: *Fourth Test, cricket score, MCG pitch conditions, DRS appeal, Smith-Head partnership.*
Tactical Battles and Key Moments: How Stokes Responded to Cummins
The leadership battle between Pat Cummins and Ben Stokes has defined the 2025 Ashes series. In this Fourth Test, their decisions have been magnified by the sheer scale of the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Cummins' Aggressive Fielding Setups
Cummins started Day 3 with an aggressive strategy, prioritizing short, sharp spells from his quicks and deploying multiple catchers in front of the wicket. This paid dividends on Day 2 when Mitchell Starc ripped through the English lower order, claiming figures of 4/78. Starc's ability to generate late reverse swing under the Melbourne sun has been a nightmare for the visitors.
Australia's success stems from their relentless pressure, maintaining tight lines and exploiting the cracks that have started to appear on the surface. The wicket tally is impressive across the board, demonstrating a complete bowling unit.
Stokes' Counter-Attack Philosophy
Ben Stokes, true to his 'Bazball' philosophy, has attempted to counter the Australian barrage with calculated aggression. Although England fell short of Australia's first-innings total, their middle order showed promising signs of taking the attack to the bowlers, preventing the Australians from settling into comfortable rhythms.
The standout performance for England was the century struck by Joe Root on Day 2, a masterpiece of resilience and stroke-play that kept England in the game. Without Root's anchoring innings, this Test would likely already be decided.
Key moments have included:
- The Wood Spell: Mark Wood's electrifying pace reaching 95 mph consistently put immense pressure on the Australian openers.
- The Catch: A stunning one-handed catch at slip by Cameron Green to dismiss the dangerous Harry Brook, turning the session instantly.
- Spin Challenge: Nathan Lyon has been surprisingly underutilized but remains Australia's key weapon if the pitch deteriorates significantly on Day 4 and 5.
The narrative of this game is simple: Australia is grinding out a lead; England needs a miracle wicket or a collapse to regain control. The psychological battle intensifies with every boundary.
Where to Catch the Action: Radio, Broadcast, and Highlights Package
Don't miss a ball of this gripping contest. Whether you prefer the detailed analysis of radio commentary or the visual excitement of streaming, here is your essential guide to following the Ashes 2025 LIVE coverage.
Television Broadcast Rights and Live Stream
Coverage of the Fourth Test from Melbourne is available globally, ensuring fans worldwide can follow the cricket score.
- Australia: Fox Cricket and Channel 7 hold the primary broadcast rights, offering HD coverage and in-depth pre- and post-match analysis.
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports Cricket is carrying the comprehensive coverage, starting typically at 11:30 PM GMT for the overnight action.
- Digital Stream: Kayo Sports (Australia) and NOW TV (UK) provide streaming options, allowing viewers to catch every ball on the move.
Radio Commentary: The Essential Listening Experience
For many purists, the best way to follow the Ashes is through the atmospheric and descriptive world of radio commentary. The combination of knowledgeable experts and evocative storytelling brings the MCG directly into your home.
- Australia: ABC Grandstand provides live, uninterrupted ball-by-ball radio commentary across all metropolitan and regional stations, and via their digital platforms.
- United Kingdom: BBC Test Match Special (TMS) remains the gold standard, offering extensive and entertaining coverage via BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra and the BBC Sounds App.
- Global Access: Many rights holders offer free audio streams via their websites, ensuring truly global access to the live score updates and expert discussion.
Daily Highlights Package Access
If you miss the overnight action, the daily highlights package is crucial for staying up-to-date with key wickets, major partnerships, and controversial moments.
Both the primary broadcast partners (Fox Cricket/Sky Sports) release extensive daily highlights packages usually within one hour of stumps being drawn. Furthermore, official short-form video highlights are often posted to the ICC and respective cricket board YouTube channels, focusing specifically on dramatic wicket-taking spells and batting milestones.
The Road Ahead: Series Standings and Fifth Test Preview
Entering the Fourth Test, the series stands at 2-1 in favor of Australia. If Australia wins or draws in Melbourne, they will successfully retain the Ashes. The pressure is entirely on England to deliver a commanding performance in this Fourth Test to force a decisive outcome in the final match.
Should Australia successfully bat through the rest of Day 3 and deep into Day 4, setting a target above 450, England's hopes for a comeback will diminish rapidly. The quality of the Australian bowling attack, particularly in the later stages of a Test match, is world-class.
The Fifth Test is scheduled to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Sydney historically offers slightly more assistance to spin bowlers, meaning Nathan Lyon could potentially be even more influential there. However, all attention must remain fixed on Melbourne. This Test is the crucible; whichever side handles the pressure of the MCG best will dictate the narrative for the remainder of the 2025 Ashes series.
Keep refreshing this page for the very latest cricket score updates and analysis from the heart of the action in Melbourne.
The Ashes 2025 LIVE: Australia vs England, fourth Test, Melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights
The Ashes 2025 LIVE: Australia vs England, fourth Test, Melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights Wallpapers
Collection of the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights wallpapers for your desktop and mobile devices.
Serene The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Capture Photography
Discover an amazing the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights background image, ideal for personalizing your devices with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Captivating The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Capture Illustration
This gorgeous the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Captivating The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Moment for Your Screen
This gorgeous the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Detailed The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Moment Photography
Experience the crisp clarity of this stunning the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, available in high resolution for all your screens.
High-Quality The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights View for Your Screen
Explore this high-quality the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, perfect for enhancing your desktop or mobile wallpaper.
Amazing The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Background Photography
Discover an amazing the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights background image, ideal for personalizing your devices with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
High-Quality The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Picture Photography
Explore this high-quality the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, perfect for enhancing your desktop or mobile wallpaper.
Detailed The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Background Illustration
Discover an amazing the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights background image, ideal for personalizing your devices with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Stunning The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Picture for Your Screen
Immerse yourself in the stunning details of this beautiful the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights wallpaper, designed for a captivating visual experience.
Exquisite The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Picture Digital Art
This gorgeous the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Vibrant The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Landscape in 4K
Experience the crisp clarity of this stunning the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, available in high resolution for all your screens.
Detailed The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Scene Collection
Experience the crisp clarity of this stunning the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, available in high resolution for all your screens.
Detailed The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Picture Collection
Explore this high-quality the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, perfect for enhancing your desktop or mobile wallpaper.
Captivating The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Design Illustration
This gorgeous the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights photo offers a breathtaking view, making it a perfect choice for your next wallpaper.
Detailed The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Scene Art
Discover an amazing the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights background image, ideal for personalizing your devices with vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Amazing The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights View for Your Screen
Experience the crisp clarity of this stunning the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, available in high resolution for all your screens.
Breathtaking The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Background Photography
Transform your screen with this vivid the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights artwork, a true masterpiece of digital design.
Amazing The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Design for Desktop
Transform your screen with this vivid the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights artwork, a true masterpiece of digital design.
High-Quality The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Wallpaper Digital Art
Experience the crisp clarity of this stunning the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights image, available in high resolution for all your screens.
Beautiful The Ashes 2025 Live: Australia Vs England, Fourth Test, Melbourne - Cricket Score, Radio & Highlights Background Concept
Transform your screen with this vivid the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights artwork, a true masterpiece of digital design.
Download these the ashes 2025 live: australia vs england, fourth test, melbourne - cricket score, radio & highlights wallpapers for free and use them on your desktop or mobile devices.