SportsThu, Dec 25, 2025
Smith Returns, Australia Opts for All-Pace Attack in Boxing Day Test
Steve Smith returns to captain Australia for the Boxing Day Test against England, as the hosts select an all-pace attack on a 'green' MCG pitch, omitting spinner Todd Murphy.
📌Key Points
- •Steve Smith returns as stand-in captain for Australia in the Boxing Day Test against England.
- •Australia has selected a 12-man squad featuring an all-pace bowling attack, omitting specialist spinner Todd Murphy.
- •The decision is based on the 'furry, green' Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch, expected to favor seam bowlers.
- •Fast bowler Jhye Richardson makes his return to the Test squad after a long injury layoff and strong domestic form.
- •Usman Khawaja retains his spot in the batting lineup at number five, while Josh Inglis has been dropped.
- •Captain Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon remain sidelined due to back and hamstring injuries, respectively.
📰Sources (5)
Smith returns as Australia prepare an all-pace attack for Boxing Day test↗The Ashes: Australia omit spinner for Boxing Day Test on 'grassy' Melbourne pitch↗No room for Murphy as Australia opt for all-pace attack for Boxing Day Test↗Australia opts for all-pace attack in fourth Ashes Test↗Express speed: Australia choose all-pace attack for Boxing Day Test↗