Australia have named a 14-member squad for the fourth Ashes Test starting 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 lead the Ashes 3-0, which has given the selectors room to rotate players without any pressure on the series result.
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 will require surgery, ending his Ashes campaign early.
In response, Australia have recalled pacer Jhye Richardson and off-spinner Todd Murphy. Richardson adds pace and bounce to the attack and is expected to slot in alongside Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc on the lively MCG surface.
Murphy returns as the frontline spin option after strong performances in the Sheffield Shield. The young off-spinner had impressed during last summer and now gets another chance with Lyon unavailable.
Smith’s return to the captaincy adds experience to the side, especially in a high-profile Boxing Day Test. While the series is already secured, the match still carries prestige, with Australia keen to push for a clean sweep against England.
The batting group remains settled, 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 left England playing for pride in the final two Tests. For the hosts, the focus will be on managing player workloads, testing bench strength and maintaining momentum in front of a packed MCG crowd.
Australia 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.