Ashes Test: England have announced two changes to their playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test against Australia, set to begin on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
With the visitors trailing 3-0 in the five-match series, the updated line-up reflects both enforced changes and a fresh tactical approach as England chase vital World Test Championship (WTC) 2027 points.
England Aims to Stay Alive in the Ashes
After suffering an 82-run defeat in the third Test at Adelaide, England face a must-win situation to avoid a series whitewash. Beyond Ashes pride, the Boxing Day Test carries significant weight in the WTC 2027 cycle, with 12 points up for grabs.
Jacob Bethell Handed Key Role at No. 3
The biggest talking point in England’s XI is the inclusion of left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who has been slotted in at No.3. The move signals England’s intent to bring balance and flexibility to the middle order, especially on the traditionally pace-friendly MCG surface.
Bethell’s ability to counterattack and offer part-time bowling adds a new dimension to the English lineup at a crucial stage of the series.
Gus Atkinson Returns as Archer Ruled Out
Fast bowler Gus Atkinson returns to the side after missing the previous Test. He replaces Jofra Archer, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the Ashes due to a left side strain — a significant blow for England’s pace attack.
Atkinson’s return provides fresh energy and pace, as England look to exploit any assistance from the Melbourne pitch.
Ollie Pope Misses Out
In another notable change, Ollie Pope has been left out of the XI following inconsistent returns earlier in the series. England’s selectors have opted for a reshuffle in the batting order in search of greater stability and impact.
England XI for the Fourth Ashes Test
Zak Crawley
Ben Duckett
Jacob Bethell
Joe Root
Harry Brook
Ben Stokes (c)
Jamie Smith (wk)
Will Jacks
Gus Atkinson
Brydon Carse
Josh Tongue
Ashes 2025-26 Series Schedule
- First Test: Perth Stadium, Nov 21-22 – Australia won by 8 wickets
- Second Test: Gabba, Dec 4-7 – Australia won by 8 wickets
- Third Test: Adelaide Oval, Dec 17-21 – Australia won by 82 runs
- Fourth Test: MCG, Dec 26-30
- Fifth Test: SCG, Jan 4-8
All Eyes on the Boxing Day Test
The Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of cricket’s biggest spectacles, and England will be desperate to produce a statement performance. With new faces in the XI and championship points on the line, the tourists will aim to restore pride, halt Australia’s dominance, and keep their WTC hopes alive.
World Test Championship 2027 Standings.
| Pos | Team | Played | Won | Lost | Draw | Ded | Points | PCT (%) |
| 1 | Australia (AUS) | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 72 | 100.00 |
| 2 | New Zealand (NZ) | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 28 | 77.78 |
| 3 | South Africa (SA) | 4 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 36 | 75.00 |
| 4 | Sri Lanka (SL) | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 16 | 66.67 |
| 5 | Pakistan (PAK) | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 50.00 |
| 6 | India (IND) | 9 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 52 | 48.15 |
| 7 | England (ENG) | 8 | 2 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 26 | 27.08 |
| 8 | Bangladesh (BAN) | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 16.67 |
| 9 | West Indies (WI) | 8 | 0 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 4.17 |
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