Australia Reveals Squad for Boxing Day Ashes Test Against England

Cricket Australia has officially announced its squad for the fourth Ashes Test against England, set to take place on Boxing Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Stand-in captain Steve Smith leads an all-pace attack, with key players like Usman Khawaja and Mitchell Starc included. The team is looking to build on their 3-0 series lead. With Pat Cummins rested, the final XI remains under consideration as selectors assess the pitch conditions. This match promises to be an exciting continuation of the historic rivalry.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 25, 2025, 08:26 IST

Australia's Squad Announcement for the Fourth Ashes Test

Melbourne [Australia], December 25: Cricket Australia (CA) has announced its playing XI for the upcoming fourth Test in the Ashes series against England. This match, set to take place on December 26, will be held at the renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground as part of the traditional Boxing Day Test.

In this match, Australia will field an all-pace bowling lineup. Stand-in captain Steve Smith, who is back in the team after missing the third Test in Adelaide, stated that the final XI is still under consideration.

Smith mentioned that selectors are keen to assess the 'quite furry' pitch at the MCG tomorrow morning before finalizing their pace attack, with Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, and returning fast bowler Jhye Richardson vying for the last two spots.

With Smith's return from an inner-ear issue, Josh Inglis has been left out of the squad, while veteran batsman Usman Khawaja has retained his position after scoring 82 and 40 in his last outing.

This marks the second instance in the series where Australia has opted for an all-fast bowling attack. Both Doggett and Neser participated in the day-night second Test in Brisbane, with Neser claiming five wickets in the second innings.

If selected for the Boxing Day Test, it will be Neser's first appearance in a red-ball match, as his previous three Tests were all with the pink ball.

Pat Cummins has been rested for this match after recently recovering from a back injury, but he may return for the final Test in Sydney starting January 4.

Australia has already secured a commanding 3-0 lead in the Ashes series following their 82-run victory in the last match against England.

Australia's XI for 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.