Australia will take the field under the captaincy of Steve Smith for the Boxing Day Test, with regular skipper Pat Cummins rested to manage workload. The fourth match of the Ashes series begins on 26 December, with Australia already having sealed the first three Tests.
Final 12 Announced Ahead of the Match
Australia has announced its 12-player squad for the Melbourne Test. Acting captain Steve Smith confirmed after the team’s final practice session on Christmas morning that selectors wanted to inspect the pitch closely before making the final playing XI decision. Smith described the pitch as “quite grassy” with around 10mm of cover, suggesting it could favor the fast bowlers.
Strong Pace Attack Selected
Australia’s final squad features no specialist spinners, as veteran Nathan Lyon remains out due to injury. Todd Murphy, who was previously in contention, did not make the final 12. Five fast bowlers have been included: Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendon Doggett, Michael Neser, and Jhye Richardson.
Usman Khawaja has retained his spot, while wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis has been left out following Smith’s return. Inglis has scored 23, 31, and 10 runs in the three innings played so far in this Ashes series.
Australia’s Final 12 for Boxing Day Test
- Travis Head
- Jake Weatherald
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith (Captain)
- Usman Khawaja
- Alex Carey (Wicketkeeper)
- Cameron Green
- Mitchell Starc
- Scott Boland
- Brendon Doggett
- Michael Neser
- Jhye Richardson
With a potent pace-heavy lineup and Smith leading from the front, Australia aims to continue its dominance and put England under intense pressure in the Boxing Day Test.
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