India, Dec. 30 -- For the first time in the 113-year history of Test cricket, a series witnessed multiple matches finishing inside two days. The ongoing 2025/26 Ashes series in Australia saw the Perth opener conclude in just 847 balls after 19 wickets fell on the opening day, while the fourth Test at the MCG lasted only five balls longer, with all 20 wickets falling on Day 1.

The unusually short matches reportedly cost Cricket Australia an estimated $30 million in losses and triggered widespread criticism. However, despite the similar outcomes, the ICC handed out sharply contrasting pitch ratings. While the Perth surface was deemed "very good", the MCG track was rated "unsatisfactory".

The Perth Test marked just the 26th instance in 2,6...