Australia's Stand-in Captain Discusses MCG Pitch Ahead of Fourth Ashes Test

As the fourth Ashes Test approaches, Australia's stand-in captain Steve Smith discusses the MCG pitch's potential to favor fast bowlers. With an all-pace attack selected, the team is set to make final decisions on their lineup. Smith reflects on the absence of a specialist spinner and the conditions expected to assist seam bowlers. With Australia leading the series 3-0, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Read on for more insights into the team's strategy and player selections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 25, 2025, 12:38 IST

Insights on the MCG Pitch

As the fourth Ashes Test against England approaches, Australia's temporary captain has shared his thoughts on the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch, indicating that it is likely to favor fast bowlers significantly.

With the Boxing Day Test set to commence on December 26, the Australian team has announced their playing XI, featuring an all-pace bowling lineup. Stand-in captain Steve Smith returns to the squad after missing the previous Test in Adelaide, where regular captain Pat Cummins led the team.

The final decision regarding the pace attack will be made on the morning of the match. Alongside Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland, Australia must choose between Jhye Richardson, Michael Neser, and Brendan Doggett.

Notably, off-spinner Todd Murphy has been left out of the 12-man squad announced by Smith, marking the second time in this Ashes series that Australia will field without a specialist spinner.

Smith commented, "I believe the pitch will provide considerable assistance, especially with tomorrow's weather expected to be similar to today—cold and overcast. I anticipate significant movement on the surface," as reported by a sports media outlet.

He also mentioned that even if veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, were available, there would still be discussions about not including a spinner in the lineup.

"Currently, many of the pitches we are playing on are more favorable to seamers than spinners. Last week in Adelaide was an exception, where we saw Nathan play a crucial role. It’s a complex decision, and we must adapt to the pitch conditions we face," he explained.

"This pitch appears to be quite supportive of seam bowlers, and the weather forecast for the week suggests similar conditions. Even if Nathan were available, we would likely still be debating the inclusion of a spinner. This decision is not a reflection of Todd's abilities; he is a talented bowler who has performed well for Australia. It's great to have him here this week, and I expect he will have a strong chance to play in Sydney next week," Smith added.

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

Australia has already secured an 82-run victory, establishing a commanding 3-0 lead in the ongoing Ashes series against England.

Australia's squad 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.