The Boxing Day Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, typically a major event blending sport and social gathering, concluded rapidly within two days. The fourth Ashes Test saw the visiting side secure a four-wicket win after just 852 deliveries. Critics noted the pitch, described as hazardous for batting, led both teams to field seam-heavy bowling attacks, contributing to the match's swift conclusion and sparking debate about its quality as an advertisement for Test cricket.