Lagatar24 Desk
After securing the Ashes series with three consecutive wins against England, Australia have announced their 15-member squad for the fourth Test of the Ashes 2025–26, set to begin on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Steve Smith will captain the side in the Boxing Day Test.
Smith Returns As Captain For Boxing Day Test
Steve Smith is set to return to leadership duties after missing the third Test due to an inner-ear issue. His comeback is expected to add stability to the Australian lineup as the team looks to extend its dominance despite already holding an unassailable 3–0 lead in the series.
Cummins And Lyon Ruled Out
Regular captain Pat Cummins has been rested under a workload management plan, while veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon has been ruled out after scans revealed a right hamstring injury requiring surgery. Lyon sustained the injury while attempting to stop a boundary on the final day of the Adelaide Test and is likely to be sidelined for an extended period.
Todd Murphy And Jhye Richardson Included
Victoria off-spinner Todd Murphy has been named as Lyon’s replacement and could make his Boxing Day Test debut on home soil. Murphy has taken 22 wickets in seven Tests so far, though he is yet to play a home Test. Fast bowler Jhye Richardson has also been recalled, potentially marking his return to Test cricket after four years following recovery from his third shoulder surgery.
Australia’s Squad For Fourth Ashes Test
Steve Smith (Captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (Wicketkeeper), Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.
