Australia are set to take on England in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, opting for an all-pace attack on a pitch expected to favor seamers. With the Ashes already retained, the hosts are looking to extend their winning streak to four matches in front of a Boxing Day crowd.
Australia’s Selection Strategy for the Boxing Day Test
On the eve of the Test, stand-in captain Steve Smith revealed that the team has yet to finalize their playing XI. Nathan Lyon is sidelined due to injury, and Todd Murphy has been added to the squad. However, Australia have decided to go with four fast bowlers and no spinner, citing the green and grassy conditions of the pitch.
Smith said, “We’re going to be playing four quicks and no spinner. The pitch has 10mm of grass, quite furry, quite green. I dare say it’s going to offer quite a bit, especially with the cold and overcast conditions on day one.”
The final XI will be confirmed after the team’s last training session on Christmas morning. Smith emphasized that the decision to play four pacers is based entirely on the surface and not a reflection of Todd Murphy’s skills.
Key Players and Tactical Decisions
Steve Smith returns after missing the third Ashes Test due to an inner-ear issue. In his absence, Usman Khawaja was promoted to No.4 and impressed with scores of 82 and 40, securing his place in the Melbourne Test. Smith commented on his recovery, saying, “It was a shame to miss that one, but it was the right call at that stage.”
Australia’s bowlers have also benefited from wicketkeeping tactics. Scott Boland highlighted the impact of Alex Carey standing up to the stumps, a strategy that proved successful in both the Gabba and Adelaide Tests. Boland said, “I’ve got full trust in ‘Kez’ that if I hit my normal length, and if the ball goes above the stumps, he’s got amazing hands.”
The Australian squad for the fourth 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.
