Match Overview: A Battle for Pride at the MCG

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) hosts the Fourth Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series from December 26-30, 2025. While Australia has already secured the series 3-0 and retained the Ashes, this traditional Boxing Day Test remains a prestigious event. 

England will play for national pride to avoid a whitewash, while Australia aims for a dominant series conclusion. The match provides a crucial opportunity for both teams to test new players and strategies in a high-profile setting.

Read also: India's T20 World Cup 2026 Squad: Samson In, Gill Out in Bold Selection

Full Match Schedule & Venue

Detail	Information
Dates	Friday, December 26 - Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Daily Start Time	5:00 AM Indian Standard Time (IST)
Toss Time	4:30 AM IST on Friday, December 26
Venue	Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne

Live Broadcast Information for India

• Television Channel: Star Sports Network
• Live Streaming Platform: JioCinema (website and mobile app)
• Coverage Start: Pre-match show expected before the 4:30 AM IST toss.

Confirmed Team Lineups & Strategic Changes

With the series decided, both teams have made significant changes to their playing XIs.

Australia (AUS):

• Key Ins: Steve Smith returns as captain after illness; fast bowler Jhye Richardson is recalled.
• Key Outs: Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis and premier spinner Nathan Lyon.
• Final Selection: A choice between pacers Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett to replace the absent Pat Cummins.

England (ENG):

• Key Ins: Batter Jacob Bethell and fast bowler Gus Atkinson.
• Key Outs: Ollie Pope and Jofra Archer.

Tactical Context & Player Spotlight

This Test shifts focus to individual performances and team development. Key narratives include:

• Steve Smith's Leadership: His tactical approach in a dead-rubber match.
• England's New Combination: How Bethell stabilizes the middle order and Atkinson adds pace.
• Bowling Dynamics: Australia's attack adapts without Cummins and Lyon, while England's new look seeks breakthrough performance.

For real-time scores and analysis, follow ESPNcricinfo or the official Cricket Australia and ECB websites and apps.

Source Information

This guide is compiled based on the detailed match preview and announcement published by Sportstar, a trusted sports news division of The Hindu Group.

You can refer to their original article for full context here:
Australia vs England 4th Test, Ashes 2025-26: Live streaming info, match details, lineups