Australia Announces Squad for Boxing Day Test Against England

Australia's Squad for the Boxing Day Test

On Tuesday, Australia revealed its 15-member lineup for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against England, set to commence on December 26 in Melbourne. Notably, skipper Pat Cummins and seasoned spinner Nathan Lyon have been omitted from the squad. In their place, off-spinner Todd Murphy and fast bowler Jhye Richardson have been included, as reported by the ICC.

In Cummins' absence, Steve Smith will take the helm of the team. All-rounders Michael Neser and Beau Webster, along with backup fast bowler Brendan Doggett, have retained their spots despite not being selected for the recent Adelaide Test, where Australia secured an 82-run victory, establishing a commanding 3-0 lead in the Ashes series.

Cummins Rested, Richardson in the Mix

Cummins is being rested for the Melbourne Test after recently recovering from a back injury. He may return for the series finale in Sydney on January 4. "We had a pretty aggressive build-up knowing that there's an Ashes series to be won, and we thought that was worth it," Cummins stated following the Adelaide win. "I doubt I'll be playing in Melbourne, and then we'll have a chat about Sydney."

Richardson is a potential candidate to fill in for Cummins, having just returned from injury and joined the squad in Adelaide before the third Test. Despite having played only three Tests due to injuries, selectors hold the 29-year-old in high regard.

Murphy to Step in for Injured Lyon

Murphy appears to be the most suitable replacement for Lyon, who is set to undergo surgery for a torn right hamstring and will be out for an extended period. Murphy has played seven Tests for Australia, with his last appearance occurring earlier this year against Sri Lanka in Galle.

Australia's Squad for the Fourth Test

The squad for the fourth Test includes: Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, and Beau Webster.