Melbourne, December 25, 2025 — With the Ashes already secured, Australia head into the iconic Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) aiming to complete a fourth straight victory when the match begins on December 26, 2025. While confidence is high in the Australian camp, the hosts face key selection calls as they prepare for conditions expected to heavily favor fast bowlers.
Australia will be without veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who has been ruled out after sustaining an injury during the Adelaide Test. Although young spinner Todd Murphy was added to the squad as cover, stand-in captain Steve Smith has confirmed that Australia are leaning towards a four-pronged pace attack, opting to go without a specialist spinner.
Smith revealed that the MCG pitch appears seam-friendly, with significant grass coverage and weather conditions expected to assist fast bowlers, especially on the opening day. He emphasized that the decision was purely conditions-based and not a reflection of Murphy’s abilities. Murphy, who has seven Test caps to his name and last featured earlier this year, is likely to miss out as Australia tailor their attack to the surface on offer.
The final playing XI will be confirmed after Australia’s last training session on Christmas morning, with selectors keen to assess the wicket one final time before locking in their combination.
Australia also welcome back Steve Smith, who returns after missing the third Ashes Test due to an inner-ear issue. During his absence, Usman Khawaja stepped up admirably, batting at No.4 and delivering vital scores of 82 and 40. The experienced left-hander’s strong performance ensured his place in the side for the Melbourne Test.
Smith admitted it was difficult watching from the sidelines but praised Khawaja for stabilizing the innings at a crucial moment. With momentum firmly on their side, Australia will look to capitalize on familiar conditions and crowd support to continue their Ashes dominance in one of cricket’s most prestigious fixtures.
Australia squad for 4th Test:
Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson.