Australia vs Englandsets the stage for high drama in the 4th Ashes Test on Boxing Day, December 26, 2025, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia by 2025–26 Ashes series They are 3-0 up after impressive wins in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide, and the Boxing Day clash gives England a chance to salvage some pride having already retained the trophy for the hosts. Both teams are facing significant absences, making the clash even more intense at the iconic MCG, where more than 90,000 fans traditionally pack into the stands for this festive clash.
Australia and England both lost their leading fast bowlers
australian captain pat cumminswho was returning from a five-month back strain injury, has been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes series by the team management. in July 2025 west indies After participating in limited games following his return against Australia, the coaches decided not to risk his long-term fitness, especially with the series now secured, leading to steve smith Got a chance to lead at MCG. this rest 2026 T20 World Cup Coincides with possible preparations for the , allowing fast bowlers such as Mitchell Starc And Josh Hazlewood Gets a chance to carry the burden on a pitch that is conducive to quick bounce and fast bowlers.
England’s campaign gets worse when the fast bowlers jofra archer The left back is out for the final two Tests with a hamstring strain, ending a nightmare tour where the visitors trail 0-3. Archer, who has been England’s leading performer with nine wickets in the first three Tests, has failed to impress after a four-year Test absence, and he Gus Atkinson By jacob bettel While Ollie Pope has been excluded. ben stokes Now leading a weak attack that includes Atkinson, Josh Tong, Brayden Karsand spinner will jacks They are testing their mettle against Australia’s strong batting, on a surface where fast bowlers have taken 124 of the recent wickets.
Melbourne weather forecast for Boxing Day Test
Day 1
The first day of the Test at the MCG is expected to be played mostly under clouds and cold winds, with the temperature likely to drop to around 16 degrees during the day and 11 degrees at night. Strong south-westerly winds can make batting difficult, especially at night, as low cloud can aid swing bowling. There is a possibility of light rain, but rain is unlikely to disrupt play, making it easier for fast bowlers to attack early.
Day 2
Day two is expected to pose similar challenges for the batsmen, as persistent low clouds and cool breeze will continue to aid seam movement. The afternoon winds are expected to become stronger, which will provide further assistance to the fast bowlers. The morning session may test the technique and patience of the top-order batsmen, although conditions are expected to improve as the day progresses.
Day 3
There will be a marked change in the weather on the third day, with the onset of sunshine and warm temperatures. There is no chance of rain and with the improvement in bounce, batting will become more comfortable. As the pitch settles, stroke-makers, especially in the middle order, can gain control and score important runs.
Day 4
On the fourth day, the Test will likely be played in bright sunlight and increasing heat. The hot conditions will test the players’ stamina, and as the surface begins to show wear, spinners are likely to come into play. Strategic announcements and calculated pursuits can define the story of the day.
Day 5
The final day is likely to be the hottest, with very warm and clear conditions conducive to aggressive batting. Any set target can be chased with intent, provided the wickets remain safe. Overall, the evolving MCG surface and undisturbed weather promise a full-on, thrilling contest where the bowlers strike early, the batsmen take advantage late, and the match heads towards the end of a dramatic summer.
Overall, the forecast indicates minimal disruption, transforming from a cool, bowler-friendly opening day to a batting paradise, boosting strategic interest at the MCG. Australia’s depth gives them the edge, but England’s comeback depends on taking advantage of the early seam in these conditions.
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