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Australia seals Ashes with third straight win
Australia retained the Ashes after crushing England in the third Test, moving to an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Former Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath believes England's prolonged winless streak in Australia stems from psychological barriers rather than a lack of talent.
England's 18-Test drought in Australia
England have not won a Test match on Australian soil in 18 attempts, a stretch dating back to 2010-11. Sixteen of those matches ended in defeat, with the remaining two drawn-one salvaged only by a last-wicket stand in Sydney four years ago. McGrath, who played in dominant Australian sides, emphasized that even his era's teams occasionally lost Tests to England, making the current drought all the more striking.
Talent vs. mentality
McGrath dismissed the notion that England's struggles reflect a lack of quality. The team has fielded world-class players like Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Alastair Cook, and James Anderson-none of whom have tasted victory in Australia. Stokes and Root, two of England's greatest cricketers, remain winless Down Under.
"If this isn't about ability, it must be about mentality," McGrath said. He criticized England's tendency to frame tours of Australia as an overwhelming challenge, citing sledging, hostile crowds, and difficult conditions as recurring talking points. Stokes himself once described Australia as "no place for weak men."
Contrasting mindsets
McGrath contrasted England's approach with Australia's relentless competitiveness. "We never give up until the last run is scored or the last ball is bowled," he said. "A game could be won from any position." He singled out England's defeatist phrase-"It's the hope that kills you"-as emblematic of their struggles. "Human beings always have to hope," he argued.
England's late adaptation offers glimmer of hope
After two heavy defeats, England adjusted their tactics in the third Test, showing signs of resilience. McGrath questioned why it took two losses to prompt a change but acknowledged the shift as a positive step. "The signs for an improved performance in the fourth Test are good," he said.
Boxing Day Test looms as final hurdle
England face a daunting task in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where 100,000 spectators-most backing Australia-will create a hostile atmosphere. McGrath urged England to embrace the challenge rather than dread it. "It could be a valuable lesson for the players who return in 2029-30," he said.
5-0 defeat still possible
McGrath warned that England risk an embarrassing 5-0 whitewash if they fail to address their mental blocks. "Losing 3-2 would be so much better than losing 5-0," he said. "If England don't alter their mentality, 5-0 is the most likely outcome."
"We are not 'win at all costs,' but we never give up. We always go out there to give it a red hot crack."
Glenn McGrath, former Australian fast bowler
What's next
England have two remaining Tests in Melbourne (Boxing Day) and Sydney. The series concludes on 7 January 2026. Live coverage is available on BBC platforms, including radio, TV, and digital.
