Australia's playing eleven for the crucial Boxing Day Test against England remains undecided, with interim captain Steve Smith stating the team management wants a final look at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch before locking in their pace-heavy bowling attack.
Pitch Inspection to Decide Final Bowling Combination
Despite confirming that Australia will field an all-pace bowling unit for the fourth Ashes Test, Smith clarified that the exact combination of fast bowlers will only be settled after a final inspection of the wicket on Friday. The surface currently has about 10mm of grass, described by Smith as "quite furry" and "quite green."
The captain indicated that the conditions, expected to be cold and overcast on day one, are likely to offer significant assistance to the seamers. This assessment has reinforced the decision to go without a specialist spinner, a move Smith insists stands even if the injured Nathan Lyon were available.
Three-Way Battle for Final Bowling Spots
The selection puzzle revolves around the last two spots in the bowling attack. The contenders are:
- Jhye Richardson: The returning fast bowler is closing in on his first Test match in four years. Smith expressed excitement about his skills, recalling his past outstanding performances at the international level.
- Michael Neser: Chasing his maiden appearance in a red-ball Test for Australia.
- Brendan Doggett: Offers continuity after being part of the squad for the Brisbane Test.
The rest of the pace attack is set to include Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland.
Smith Returns, Batting Order Adjusted
Smith returns to lead the side after missing the third Test due to an inner-ear issue, confirming he now feels "100 per cent." His comeback reshuffles the batting order. Usman Khawaja, who impressed after a late recall in Adelaide, will move down to the number five position.
Alex Carey, fresh from his match-winning century in the Ashes-clinching third Test, will retain his place at number six. All-rounder Cameron Green is slated to bat at seven, with Josh Inglis missing out from the final twelve.
The Australian camp is dealing with enforced changes, with regular skipper Pat Cummins rested for workload management and premier spinner Nathan Lyon ruled out for the remainder of the series with a hamstring injury.
Despite holding an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series, Smith emphasised that selection decisions for the Boxing Day Test will be dictated purely by the pitch and weather conditions, not the series scoreline, as the hosts aim to exploit what promises to be a lively MCG surface.
