Australia vs EnglandThe fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground sets the stage for high drama on Boxing Day on December 26, 2025. Australia are leading 2025-26 Ashes series After dominant 3-0 wins in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide, the Boxing Day clash gives England a chance to salvage glory, even if the hosts have already clinched the Vase. Both teams face key absences, intensifying the battle at the iconic MCG, where over 90,000 fans traditionally pack the stands for this festive showdown.
Both Australia and England have lost their leading fast bowlers
australian captain pat cumminsReturning from a stress injury five months ago, the team management has ruled him out of the remaining Ashes series as a precautionary measure. After starring in limited action following his return in July 2025 west indiesThe coaches opted not to risk long-term fitness, especially with the series secured, paving the way for steve smith To lead at MCG. This relaxation potentially aligns with tracking preparations. 2026 t20 world cuplike allowing pacers Mitchell Starc And Josh Hazlewood Bearing weight and bowling favorable fast bowling on a pitch known for its early bounce.
England’s campaign is at its peak led by fast bowling jofra archer He was ruled out of the final two Tests due to a left strain, ending a nightmare tour where the visitors went 0-3. Archer, who had been England’s standout performer with nine wickets in the first three Tests despite a history of injury, was ruled out after impressing after a four-year Test absence, replaced by Gus Atkinson together in the eleventh jacob bethel to be dropped Ollie Pope. ben stokes Now leading a vulnerable attack featuring Atkinson, Josh Tongue, Brayden Carseand spinner will jacksThey are testing their resolve against Australia’s strong batting on a surface where the pacers have recently taken 124 wickets.
Melbourne weather forecast for Boxing Day Test
day 1
The opening day of the Test at the MCG is expected to be played in mostly cloudy and windy conditions, with the temperature hovering around 16 degrees during the day and dropping to 11 degrees at night. Strong south-south-westerly winds may make batting difficult, especially under lights, as low cloud cover is likely to aid swing bowling. Although there is a slight possibility of light rain, rain is unlikely to disrupt play, making conditions ideal for fast bowlers to take an early lead.
day 2
Day two should pose similar challenges for the batsmen, with persistent low clouds and cool weather aiding seam movement. The winds are expected to increase in the afternoon, which will help the fast bowlers. The morning session may test the technique and patience of the top-order batsmen, although conditions are expected to ease as the day progresses.
third day
The third day marks a marked change in the weather, with sunshine and warmer temperatures. With no rain expected and better bounce on offer, batting should become more comfortable. As the pitch settles, stroke-makers, especially in the middle order, can take control and score important runs.
day 4
The Test is likely to be played under bright sunlight and increasing heat till the fourth day. The hot conditions will test the players’ stamina, and as the surface begins to show wear and tear, the spinners may eventually come into play. Strategic announcements and well-planned chases can define the story of the day.
day 5
The final day is expected to be the hottest, with very warm and clear conditions conducive to aggressive batting. Any target set can be chased with intent, provided the wickets remain in hand. Overall, the undulating MCG surface and undisturbed weather promise a full-fledged, entertaining contest where the bowlers attack first, the batsmen come into play later, and the match heads towards a dramatic summer finale.
Overall, the forecast indicates minimal disruptions, with the game shifting from a cool, bowler-friendly early day to batting paradise later on, adding to the tactical intrigue at the MCG. Australia’s depth gives them the edge, but England’s fight depends on exploiting the early seam in these conditions.
