Australian fast bowler Jhye Richardson is on the verge of returning to Test cricket after four years, as Australia prepares an all-pace attack for the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

With Pat Cummins ruled out, captain Steve Smith leads a pace-heavy side on a green and grassy pitch expected to favor bowlers.

Australia opts for four fast bowlers

Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Smith confirmed that the team will rely on four quicks with no spinner included in the playing XI. The MCG pitch, covered with about 10mm of grass, is expected to offer significant movement, especially under the cool, cloudy weather forecast for the first day.

Todd Murphy misses out ❌

Australia lock in all-pace attack for Boxing Day ⚡

🔗 https://t.co/aEXjR21lLT pic.twitter.com/nkzajWGo69
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) December 25, 2025

“Even if Nathan Lyon was fit, we’d still be having the same conversation,” Smith said, emphasizing that the decision is based on pitch conditions, not the skills of off-spinner Todd Murphy.

Jhye Richardson, Neser, or Doggett?

The final playing eleven will be announced on match morning, with two players to be chosen from Jhye Richardson, Michael Neser, and Brendan Doggett. Richardson’s inclusion marks a potential comeback after four years out of Test cricket.

Off-spinner Todd Murphy and Josh Ingles have been left out of the 12-man squad, while Cameron Green has been moved to number seven in the batting order due to recent form concerns. Usman Khawaja retains his spot at number five.

Australia XI for fourth Ashes Test:

Travis Head
Jake Weatherald
Marnus Labuschagne
Steve Smith (c)
Usman Khawaja
Alex Carey (wk)
Cameron Green
Mitchell Starc
Scott Boland
Brendan Doggett
Michael Neser
Jhye Richardson

Steve Smith praised his teammates, noting that the lineup is well-suited to the green and overcast conditions. “We’ve landed on a 12; we just want to take a look at the wicket tomorrow. It’s quite cold and overcast, so I dare say there’s going to be quite a bit of movement,” he added.

Smith also highlighted the adaptability of the side, particularly in the absence of Cummins, trusting the pace attack to exploit the early conditions.