Australia Reveals Playing XI for Fourth Ashes Test Against England

Cricket Australia has unveiled its playing eleven for the upcoming fourth Test of the Ashes series against England, scheduled for December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. With a focus on a pace-heavy lineup, acting captain Steve Smith is set to lead the team, which includes notable players like Usman Khawaja and Mitchell Starc. The selectors plan to finalize the bowling attack after assessing the pitch conditions. This match marks a significant moment as Australia aims to extend its 3-0 lead in the series. Read on to discover the complete squad and more insights into the match preparations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 25, 2025, 12:41 IST

Australia's Squad Announcement for the Boxing Day Test

Cricket Australia has officially announced its playing eleven for the fourth Test of the Ashes series against England. This match, known as the Boxing Day Test, is set to commence on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Australian team is expected to rely heavily on its pace bowlers for this crucial encounter.

Acting captain Steve Smith, who missed the third Test in Adelaide due to the absence of regular captain Pat Cummins, mentioned that the final playing eleven for the fourth Test has not yet been confirmed.

Smith indicated that selectors plan to inspect the MCG pitch again tomorrow morning to finalize the composition of their fast bowling attack. Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, and returning fast bowler Jhye Richardson are in contention for the last two spots.

Due to Smith stepping in as captain after recovering from an ear issue, Josh Inglis has been left out of the playing eleven. Meanwhile, experienced batsman Usman Khawaja secured his position by scoring 82 and 40 runs in the last moments of the Adelaide Test.

This marks the second instance in this series where Australia has opted for an all-pace attack. Both Doggett and Neser participated in the second day-night Test held in Brisbane, where Neser took five wickets in the second innings.

If selected for the Boxing Day Test, it will be Neser's first red-ball match, having previously played all three Tests in the pink-ball format. Cummins has been rested for the Melbourne Test as he recently returned from a back injury, but he is expected to play in the final Test of the series starting January 4 in Sydney. Australia currently holds an unassailable 3-0 lead in the ongoing Ashes series after a remarkable 82-run victory over England.

Confirmed Playing XI for the Fourth Test

The confirmed playing eleven for Australia in the fourth Test includes: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (captain), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, and Jhye Richardson.