Australia have named a 14-member squad for the fourth Ashes Test starting on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with Steve Smith set to captain the side in place of Pat Cummins.
Cummins has been rested from the Boxing Day Test to manage his workload after a long and demanding season. Australia already led the Ashes 3-0, which has given the selectors the space to rotate players without any pressure on the outcome of the series.
Australia were forced into another change after Nathan Lyon was ruled out for the remainder of the series. The senior off-spinner has suffered a hamstring injury that requires surgery, ending his Ashes campaign prematurely.
In response, Australia have recalled pacer Jhye Richardson and off-spinner Todd Murphy. Richardson adds speed and resilience to the attack and is expected to play alongside Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc on the lively MCG surface.
Murphy returns as a frontline spin option after strong performances in the Sheffield Shield. The young off-spinner impressed last summer and will now get another chance now that Lyon is unavailable.
Smith’s return as captain adds experience to the side, especially in a high-profile Boxing Day Test. Although the series has already been secured, the match still carries prestige, with Australia keen to push for a clean sweep against England.
The batting group remains stable, with Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne at the top, followed by Cameron Green, Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Alex Carey continues as wicketkeeper, while all-round options Beau Webster and Matthew Short provide balance.
Australia’s dominance so far has seen England play proudly in the last two Tests. For the hosts, the focus will be on managing the players’ workload, testing the strength of the bench and maintaining momentum in front of a packed MCG crowd.
Australian squad for 4th Ashes Test
Steve Smith (C), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Beverley, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, Todd Murphy, Beau Webster, Matthew Short.
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