Australia is preparing to deploy an all-pace attack for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Stand-in captain Steve Smith confirmed that the final team selection remains unresolved, pending a comprehensive inspection of the MCG surface, which he described as “quite furry.”
Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, and the returning Jhye Richardson are in contention for the last two spots in the squad. Smith’s return from an inner-ear issue has led to Josh Inglis being omitted from the lineup. Usman Khawaja has retained his position after scoring 82 and 40 in the third Test in Adelaide.
“It’s exciting to see Richardson back in the fold; he’s had a lengthy recovery from injury, and we’re aware of the skills he possesses. He has previously excelled against England in an Ashes series. We’ve seen when he’s had opportunities at this level, he’s been outstanding,” Smith remarked during a press conference ahead of the Boxing Day Test.
Despite Nathan Lyon’s injury, Todd Murphy will not be included in the squad. Should Neser be selected, it would mark his first red-ball Test appearance, as he has previously only played in pink-ball matches. Doggett and Neser would work alongside a four-pronged pace attack, a strategy previously adopted in Brisbane’s day-night Test. Smith confirmed that the team will consist of four fast bowlers and no spinner, attributing this decision to the pitch conditions rather than Murphy’s abilities.
“We’re going to be playing four quicks and no spinner. The pitch has 10mm of grass, quite furry and green. I believe it’s going to provide considerable assistance, especially on day one in cold and overcast conditions, which should facilitate movement. You have to adapt to the playing surface presented, and this one looks set to offer a fair bit for seam bowlers. The forecast suggests conducive weather throughout the week as well. I think, even if Nathan were available, our conversation would likely remain unchanged regarding Todd,” Smith stated.
The batting order has also been amended, with Khawaja now batting at No. 5 and Alex Carey at No. 6 following Carey’s recent scores of 106 and 72 in the previous Test. Cameron Green slots in at No. 7, edging out Inglis. Travis Head and Jake Weatherald will continue as the opening partnership, while Smith returns to lead the middle order.
