The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is set to host a monumental clash as Australia and England lock horns in the fourth Test of the 2025 Ashes series. The high-stakes encounter, the traditional Boxing Day Test, begins on December 26, 2025, with Australia holding a commanding and almost unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.
Match Schedule and Timings for Indian Viewers
Cricket fans across India can brace themselves for an early morning start to catch the live action from Down Under. The first ball is scheduled for 10:30 AM local time in Melbourne. For viewers following in Indian Standard Time (IST), the day's proceedings will kick off with the toss at 4:30 AM, followed by the start of play at 5:30 AM.
The day's play will be divided into three sessions:
- Session 1: 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM IST
- Session 2 (Post-lunch): 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM IST
- Session 3 (Post-tea): 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM IST
Where to Watch Live in India
Indian fans will have multiple options to follow every ball of this blockbuster Test match. The Star Sports Network will provide comprehensive television coverage. Viewers can tune into Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, and Star Sports 1 Hindi for bilingual commentary.
For those preferring digital platforms, live streaming will be available exclusively on the JioHotstar app and website. This ensures fans can watch the match on the go across various devices.
Team Squads and Key Changes
Under the leadership of Steve Smith, Australia has named a 12-man squad with a distinct pace-heavy attack. The squad includes batters like Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, and Usman Khawaja, supported by a formidable pace battery featuring Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, and Scott Boland.
Australia's 12-man squad: 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.
England, led by the inspirational Ben Stokes, has announced a revamped side looking to salvage pride. Their squad features a mix of experienced campaigners like Joe Root and exciting talents such as Harry Brook and Gus Atkinson.
England's squad: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue.
With the series already decisively in Australia's favour, this Boxing Day Test presents an opportunity for the hosts to complete a historic whitewash. For England, it is a chance to play for honour and disrupt Australia's dominant run. For Indian fans, it promises five days of high-quality, high-octane Test cricket to enjoy during the holiday season.
