Cricket Australia has announced a 14-member squad for the fourth Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series against England, starting December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Steve Smith will lead the side in
place of regular captain Pat Cummins, who has been ruled, alongside veteran spinner Nathan Lyon.
Nathan Lyon, who played in the last match, has sustained a hamstring injury and is out for the remainer of the series. The Australian board confirmed that the veteran requites surgery and will be sidelined for some time. On the other hand, Pat Cummins is set to be rested to manage his workload.
Jhye Richardson and Todd Murphy have been recalled as replacements. Jhye Richardson returns to the pace attack after recovering from his own injury layoff, while Todd Murphy earns a recall as the off-spinner following impressive Sheffield Shield performances.
Smith, who has captained Australia in 31 Tests previously, brings proven leadership to the MCG, where he averages over 60. Richardson's inclusion bolsters the seam options, complementing Hazlewood and Starc, while Murphy provides spin variety in Lyon's absence.
Australia have already won the Ashes series after their recent win in Adelaide. The hosts currently lead the series 3-0 and have dominated England across all departments.
Full Australia squad for Ashes 4th Test
Steve Smith (captain), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Pat Beverley, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, Todd Murphy, Beau Webster, Matthew Short.
