Why is Todd Murphy not playing in the fourth Ashes Test?

Todd Murphy has been excluded from the playing XI to make way for an all-pace bowling attack chosen by the Australian team.

Who is captaining Australia in the Ashes Test at the MCG?

Steve Smith is the stand-in captain for the Ashes Test at the MCG, as Pat Cummins is unavailable due to injury.

What is Australia's bowling strategy for the MCG Test against England?

Australia will field an all-pace bowling attack, opting against using a specialist spinner for the upcoming match.

Home / Sports / Australia Goes Pace-Only for Ashes Test

Australia Goes Pace-Only for Ashes Test

25 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Spinner Todd Murphy will not play in the upcoming match.
Steve Smith returns as captain, replacing injured Pat Cummins.
An all-pace bowling attack will be used against England.

Australia is set to deploy an all-pace bowling attack for the crucial fourth Ashes Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Stand-in captain Steve Smith announced that spinner Todd Murphy has been left out of the squad for the Boxing Day clash. This strategic decision indicates a focus on fast bowling to exploit the conditions.

Smith himself returns to the Australian team after missing the previous Test due to illness. His comeback comes as a significant boost, though the team will still be without regular captain Pat Cummins and experienced spinner Nathan Lyon, both unavailable due to injuries. The final selection of the pace trio will be determined after a close examination of the MCG pitch.

The fourth Ashes Test is scheduled to commence on Friday at 10:30 AM AEDT. With the series on the line, Australia's decision to opt for an exclusively fast bowling unit highlights their confidence in their pace battery and the pitch's characteristics at the iconic venue.

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