The Ashes urn may already be secure, but the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground carries weight far beyond the scoreline. With Australia leading the series 3–0 and having already retained the Ashes, the Boxing Day Test unfolds amid questions of dominance, defiance — and direction.
Australia: New-Look Pace, Same Authority
Australia arrive in Melbourne firmly in control, yet forced into change. The absence of Pat Cummins, alongside veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, has reshaped the hosts’ attack. In response, Australia are expected to back an all-pace bowling strategy at the MCG.
The pace unit is likely to feature:
Mitchell Starc, leading the attack with experience and left-arm pace, Scott Boland, highly effective on home soil, Jhye Richardson, returning with extra zip and bounce, Michael Neser or Brendan Doggett, providing seam depth
With Steve Smith returning to captain the side, Australia’s batting — powered by Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head — remains formidable. The focus now is on maintaining hunger and pushing towards a potential 5–0 whitewash.
England: Pride on the Line
England arrive bruised by results and injuries. The loss of Jofra Archer has further weakened their bowling resources, while repeated batting collapses have raised concerns about adaptability in Australian conditions.
Captain Ben Stokes once again leans heavily on Joe Root and Harry Brook for stability. With the Ashes gone, England’s immediate task is no longer redemption of the series, but restoring belief, competitiveness and credibility.
Spotlight on McCullum as Pressure Mounts
Beyond the on-field contest, the spotlight has shifted sharply onto England head coach Brendon McCullum. England’s aggressive “Bazball” philosophy, credited with revitalising the side in home conditions, has struggled to translate into success on this tour.
The speed with which England surrendered the Ashes — inside three Tests — has sparked debate among former players and pundits about preparation, adaptability and leadership. McCullum has acknowledged that the approach in Australia has not delivered the desired results and admitted that scrutiny is inevitable.
While McCullum has expressed his desire to continue, his future may ultimately rest with the England and Wales Cricket Board, particularly if the tour ends in a heavy defeat.
Adding to the intrigue, speculation has quietly emerged in cricketing circles that former India head coach Ravi Shastri could be considered should England decide on a change. Known for his strong man-management skills, overseas success and ability to toughen touring sides, Shastri’s name has surfaced as a possible alternative — though no official move has been made.
For now, McCullum remains in charge, but the Boxing Day Test could carry implications that extend far beyond Melbourne.
MCG: Tradition Still Demands Respect
The Boxing Day Test remains one of cricket’s grandest occasions. The vast dimensions, lively surface and massive crowds ensure intensity regardless of series position. Australia’s pace depth versus England’s resolve will define the contest.
The Ashes may be decided, but at the MCG, every session still matters. And for England, the consequences of this Test may echo well beyond the final ball.
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