Gus Atkinson Returns to England Playing 11 for MCG Test; Jofra Archer Ruled Out

By Samira Vishwas On Dec 25, 2025

The fast bowler Gu Atkinson has returned to England playing 11 for the fourth test of the Ashes 2025/26, which begins on December 26.

On the other hand, left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell comes into the side and is listed at No.3, replacing Ollie Pope. Meanwhile, Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes due to a side strain.

Atkinson will be replacing Archer, who has been a standout performer in the series where England is down 3-0 after three games.

Jofra Archer has nine wickets and also registered his maiden fifty in the third test in Adelaide. It is a huge disappointment for Jofra Archer, who spent years battling elbow and back injuries, to return to Test cricket.

“England has made two changes to the XI that played in the third Test in Adelaide. Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the tour with a left side strain, and Surrey batter Ollie Pope misses out.

“Warwickshire’s Jacob Bethell comes into the side and will bat at number three. Surrey seamer Gus Atkinson returns after missing the third Test,” the ECB said in a statement.

Jofra Archer will return to the UK after the fourth test to be assessed, after which a decision can be made on availability for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lana, beginning in February.

“The effort that he’s put in over these three games has been exceptional,” said captain Ben Stokes.

“There were a lot of question marks around his ability or whatever it may be coming out to Australia, and he’s put in a great effort for the team.”

The fourth test will be played between December 26 and 30 at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne.

England Playing 11: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue.