Ben Duckett Breaches 3000 Test Runs After Noosa Scandal

New Delhi, December 27, 2025: A significant personal milestone was reached by England opener Ben Duckett on Saturday, providing a rare highlight in an otherwise challenging Ashes campaign. During the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the left-handed batter successfully crossed the 30-run mark for the first time in the 2025-26 series. In a high-pressure run-chase of 175, Duckett was observed scoring a brisk 34 off 26 balls, a knock that finally saw him breach the prestigious 3,000-run mark in Test cricket.

Redemption Following Noosa Controversy

The achievement comes at a time when Duckett’s off-field conduct has been subjected to intense scrutiny. Prior to the Boxing Day Test, a viral video from the team’s mid-series break in Noosa was circulated, appearing to show the opener in an intoxicated state. The footage, which prompted an investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), depicted Duckett struggling to navigate his way back to the team hotel. Despite the noise surrounding his behavior, the 31-year-old was retained in the playing XI, with his Melbourne performance viewed as a much-needed response to his critics.

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Statistical Contrast in a Tough Series

While the 3,000-run milestone was celebrated, Duckett’s overall form in the current Ashes has been noted as sub-par by cricket analysts. Before this innings, an average of just 16.62 had been maintained by the opener across eight innings. The contrast between his career average of 40.06 and his current series struggles has been highlighted as a key factor in England’s difficulty to set solid platforms. However, his aggressive strike rate of 130.77 during the second innings at the MCG suggested a return to the “Bazball” intent that has defined his recent career.

England’s Fight for Pride

The match itself has been described as a chaotic affair, with 20 wickets falling on the opening day alone. After England was bundled out for a mere 110 in their first innings, a spirited bowling performance led by Josh Tongue and Brydon Carse saw Australia dismissed for 132 in their second outing. Duckett’s contribution at the top of the order was seen as vital in stabilizing a chase that threatened to derail England’s hopes of securing their first Test win on Australian soil in over a decade.

Looking Ahead to Sydney

As the 2025-26 Ashes moves toward its conclusion, the focus remains on whether Duckett can translate this milestone into consistent big scores. While the Urn has already been retained by Australia, the individual performances of England’s top order are being closely monitored for future squad selections. The Noosa incident is expected to remain a topic of discussion, but for now, Duckett’s entry into the 3,000-run club serves as a reminder of the talent that the England management continues to back.