Australia vs England, 4th Ashes Test: When and where, key players, predicted playing XI, streaming details and more

NEW DELHI: The Ashes series has now moved to Melbourne, where Australia and England will lock horns in the iconic Boxing Day Test at MCG.

While the venue promises grandeur and history, the excitement around the contest appears muted with Australia already sealing the series with an unassailable 3-0 lead.

England have struggled to challenge the hosts throughout the series and find themselves searching for answers both on and off the field. Australia, on the other hand, will be keen to stretch their dominance further and maintain their strong unbeaten run in the world test championship.

Off the field, the Ashes has also been hit by controversy after a Noosa drink-related video went viral on social media.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion and an investigation is currently underway, adding another layer of distraction for the touring side ahead of the crucial test.

4th test: Match Details

Date: December 26 – 30, 2025
Time: 5:00 AM IST
Venue: Melbourne cricket ground, Melbourne

Key players to watch (Australia)

Travis Head has been one of Australia’s biggest match-winners in the series and will be eager to continue his aggressive approach in Melbourne.

Steve Smith, leading the side, remains the backbone of Australia’s batting and will look to dictate terms against an English attack that has lacked consistency.

Mitchell Starc’s pace and ability to exploit bounce at the G make him a constant threat, especially with the new ball and during reverse swing phases.

Australia predicted XI

Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Jhye Richardson

Key players to watch (England)

Ben Stokes will once again shoulder the responsibility of inspiring his side, both with the bat and as a leader, in what has been a tough tour.

Joe Root’s calm presence and technical excellence will be vital if England are to put up a fight against Australia’s relentless bowling unit.

Josh Tongue has shown flashes of promise and will look to make early breakthroughs to keep England competitive.

England confirmed XI

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue

pitch report

The pitch is expected to offer good bounce and carry, assisting fast bowlers early in the match. As the test progresses, the surface traditionally flattens out, bringing batters into play. Spinners could come into the game late on days four and five as footmarks begin to open up.

weather forecast

Melbourne is expected to experience typical summer conditions during the Boxing Day Test. Clear skies are forecast for most days, with mild temperatures and minimal chances of rain, ensuring uninterrupted play.

Live Streaming Details

The match will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network. Digital viewers can stream it live on the JioHotstar app and website.