Australia no spinner Boxing Day Test
Australia have opted to play the Boxing Day Test without a specialist spinner after assessing a green and grass-covered Melbourne Cricket Ground surface. Stand-in captain Steve Smith confirmed the move on Christmas Day, describing the pitch as “quite furry” and ideal for fast bowling.
The hosts, who have already retained the Ashes with a 3-0 lead, are preparing an all-pace attack for the fourth Test against England. The decision means off-spinner Todd Murphy misses out, despite being available in the squad.
Grassy MCG Pitch Influences Selection Call:Australia no spinner Boxing Day Test
Speaking ahead of the match, Smith said the surface had around 10mm of grass, a clear indicator that seam bowlers will dominate. With cold and overcast conditions forecast, Australia believe swing and movement will be key factors.
“It’s going to offer quite a bit,” Smith said. “There’s going to be plenty of movement in that surface.”
The MCG has increasingly favoured fast bowlers in recent years, particularly early in matches. Australia’s dominant victory at the venue in 2021, when England were dismissed for 185 and 68 inside three days, remains a strong reference point.
Australia’s Bowling Combination Explained
Australia will field four specialist seamers alongside all-rounder Cameron Green. With regular captain Pat Cummins managing a back issue and Josh Hazlewood sidelined for the series, selectors are weighing up their remaining pace options carefully.
Michael Neser, Brendon Doggett and Jhye Richardson are competing for two spots in the final XI. Doggett featured in the first two Tests, while Neser impressed in Brisbane with a five-wicket haul in England’s second innings.
Richardson, who recently returned from shoulder surgery, has not played a Test since the last Ashes series in Australia four years ago. Smith acknowledged the risk but backed Richardson’s ability.
“He’s had a long lay-off, but we know the skills he can possess,” Smith said. “It’s exciting to have him back in the fold.”
Batting Changes as Smith Returns
Steve Smith returns to the side after missing the third Test through illness. His inclusion sees Usman Khawaja retained in the XI following scores of 82 and 40 in Adelaide.
Khawaja will bat at number five, while Josh Inglis makes way. Cameron Green drops to number seven, providing extra balance to the bowling-heavy lineup.
England Hit by Archer Injury
England have already named their XI, with Jacob Bethell replacing Ollie Pope at number three. However, their preparations have been disrupted by the loss of Jofra Archer, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the series with a side strain.
Archer’s absence removes one of England’s most threatening bowlers and ends another chapter in his intense on-field rivalry with Smith.
“You never want to see good players missing games,” Smith said. “It’s a shame he’s not going to be around, but they still have quality seamers.”
Scrutiny and Pressure on England
England have faced criticism following reports of excessive drinking during a break in Noosa between Tests. Director of cricket Rob Key has confirmed the behaviour will be investigated.
Captain Ben Stokes has called for empathy, pointing to the mental and emotional toll of touring Australia. Smith, reflecting on his own experiences following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, said public scrutiny can intensify when results go against a team.
“When you’re losing, the spotlight is always on you,” Smith said. “Things can get spoken about and blown up pretty heavily.”
What’s at Stake in Melbourne
With the Ashes already secured, Australia are now targeting a rare 5-0 clean sweep. England, meanwhile, are desperate to end an 18-match winless streak in Australia.
The Boxing Day Test remains one of the most challenging fixtures for touring sides, combining intense crowd pressure with conditions that often favour the home team.
Smith has also hinted that he may not feature in the next Ashes series in 2027, adding further significance to this contest.
Conclusion
Australia’s decision to go without a spinner at the Boxing Day Test reflects confidence in their pace depth and a clear reading of MCG conditions. On a green surface offering movement, the hosts are backing speed and aggression.
As England attempt to regroup amid injuries and scrutiny, Australia will look to press their advantage and move closer to a historic series whitewash.
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By The News Update— Updated December 25, 2025
