Ashes 2025: Australia have officially revealed their squad for the fourth Test against England in the Ashes 2025–26 series, set to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to December 31. The Boxing Day Test is always one of the most anticipated fixtures in international cricket, and this year’s encounter carries added significance as Australia look to further assert their dominance after already retaining the Ashes.
With a commanding 3–0 lead in the five-match series, the hosts have opted for a combination of experience, rotation, and injury management. Two key players, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, will not feature in the fourth Test, prompting strategic changes to the squad.
Cricket Australia confirmed that Pat Cummins has been rested as part of a carefully planned workload and injury management program. The fast bowler and current Test captain returned in the third Test after missing the opening two matches and delivered an impressive performance in Adelaide. However, with the series already secured, the team management has chosen to prioritize his long-term fitness.
Nathan Lyon, Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, has been ruled out due to an injury sustained on the final day of the third Test. His absence leaves a significant gap in the bowling attack, particularly on a surface like Melbourne that often rewards patience and spin later in the match.
In response to these absences, selectors have recalled Jhye Richardson and Todd Murphy to the Test setup. Richardson, now 29, has played only three Test matches so far but has shown promise with 11 wickets to his name. His last appearance in Test cricket came back in December 2021 against England in Adelaide, making this return an important opportunity to re-establish himself at the highest level.
Todd Murphy is expected to take on the role of the primary spinner in the fourth Test. With Lyon unavailable, Murphy’s ability to control the middle overs and exploit any assistance from the pitch will be closely watched. His inclusion also reflects Australia’s confidence in their emerging spin resources.
In the absence of Cummins, Steve Smith will once again assume captaincy duties. The senior batter led Australia in the first two Tests of the series, both of which ended in convincing victories for the hosts. His calm leadership and tactical awareness played a crucial role in outclassing England during those matches.
Smith missed the third Test due to injury but is set to return at his familiar No. 4 batting position in Melbourne. As one of only four Australians to have scored more than 10,000 Test runs, his presence adds stability and experience to the batting lineup.
Australia’s batting unit remains largely settled, though a few selection questions remain. Usman Khawaja, who contributed a half-century in the first innings of the previous Test, will be keen to retain his place in the playing eleven. Alongside him, players like Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, and Cameron Green continue to form a formidable middle order that has consistently put pressure on England’s bowlers.
The inclusion of wicketkeepers Alex Carey and Josh Inglis provides flexibility, while the pace attack, featuring Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Michael Neser, and others, ensures depth and variety in bowling options.
Australia enter the fourth Test on the back of an 82-run victory and with immense confidence. Having already secured the Ashes, the focus now shifts to maintaining momentum, testing bench strength, and managing player fitness ahead of future international commitments.
For England, the Melbourne Test represents a chance to salvage pride and halt Australia’s winning run. For the hosts, it is another opportunity to showcase dominance at one of cricket’s most iconic venues.
The selected squad reflects a blend of proven performers and returning talents, underlining Australia’s depth in Test cricket.
Australia squad for the fourth Test against England: Steve Smith (captain), Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Beau Webster.
