Good morning and welcome to our live blog of the fourth Ashes Test, the iconic Boxing Day clash in Melbourne.
It’s a bit chilly at the MCG today and overcast as well, which could give England a bit of a boost.
Australia arrive at the MCG for the Boxing Day Test with the Ashes already secured and a 3–0 series lead that reflects their control across all three matches.
Steve Smith returns to captain the side, with Australia opting for an all-pace attack after injuries sidelined Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon for the remainder of the series.
It is the first time in 15 years the Aussies have gone into the Boxing Day Test without a spinner, and a bitter blow for Todd Murphy who is yet to play a Test on home soil.
Scott Boland looms as a central figure again at his home ground, where his record and past Boxing Day performance continue to shape England’s plans.
Mitchell Starc is in career-best form, leaving Jhye Richardson, Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser to fight it out for two remaining spots.
England, meanwhile, face another reshuffle, bringing Jacob Bethell in at No.3 and losing Jofra Archer to injury as they search for stability after losing the Ashes in just 11 days.
Ben Stokes’ side has struggled to post competitive first-innings totals, a trend they must reverse on a surface that often rewards patience and discipline.
The MCG’s history adds weight to the contest, with Australia unbeaten in their last three Tests against England at the venue and winners of the past four Boxing Day matches overall.
England can still draw belief from past Melbourne upsets, though their recent away record offers little margin for error.
Australia’s batting order settles with Smith’s return, pushing Usman Khawaja down the order and keeping Alex Carey in strong form after his Adelaide hundred.
With World Test Championship points also at stake, the hosts have incentive beyond the urn to maintain momentum through the back end of the summer.
A packed MCG and Boxing Day tradition ensure the stage is set, even if the series result is already decided.
