Australia and England are gearing up to meet in the fourth match of the Ashes series, set to begin on Boxing Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Though England have no chance to claim the urn, the Boxing Day showdown is far from meaningless. Australia enter the Melbourne Test riding high after sealing the Ashes in Adelaide, but they will be without their regular captain in the upcoming battles.
Pat Cummins has been ruled out for the remainder of the series as part of a workload management plan. In the Adelaide Test, Cummins made a memorable return from a back injury, during which he claimed six wickets and played a decisive role in Australia reclaiming the Ashes.
With Cummins out, Steve Smith returns to lead the side after missing the third Test due to an injury setback. His presence adds extreme value to the lineup as Australia look to maintain their dominance. West Australian quick Jhye Richardson has been named in the squad for the fourth Test, providing an additional fast-bowling option alongside Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser.
For England, the situation is more complex. Having lost the Ashes in just 11 days of cricket, the tourists are now focused on salvaging respect and finishing the tour on a positive note. Ollie Pope, who struggled in Adelaide with scores of three and 17, has been replaced by Jacob Bethell, who will bat at number three. England’s bowling attack has also taken a hit. Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the series due to an injury.
Head-to-head (MCG)
Australia won - 29
England won - 20
Drawn - 9
Australia possible XI – Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson
England XI – Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue