Australia vs EnglandThe 4th Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground sets the stage for high drama on Boxing Day 26 December 2025. Australia leads 2025-26 Ashes series 3-0 after dominant wins in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide, the Boxing Day clash offers England a chance to salvage their pride despite the bowl already held by the hosts. Both teams face major disadvantages, intensifying the contest at the iconic MCG, where more than 90,000 fans traditionally pack the stands for this festive celebration.
Australia and England are both losing their frontline pacers
Australian captain Pat Cumminsreturning from a five-month stress injury in his back, was ruled out of the rest of the Ashes series as a precautionary measure by the team management. After participating in a limited action post, he faced his comeback in July 2025 West Indiacoaches have chosen not to take long-term fitness risks, especially with the streak, which paved the way Steve Smith To lead at the MCG. This rest is potentially compatible with pending preparations 2026 T20 World Cupas the pacers allow Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood shouldering the load and carrying quick moves on a pitch known for early bounce
England’s campaign is quickly hitting rock bottom Jofra Archer He was ruled out for the last two Tests due to a left-sided strain and ended a nightmare tour in which the visitors trailed 0-3. Archer, England’s standout performer with nine wickets in the first three Tests despite his injury-plagued past, is coming off an impressive four-year Test spell. Gus Atkinson Along with XI Jacob Bethell because it fell Ollie Pope. Ben Stokes now leading a depleted attack with Atkinson, Josh Tongue, Brydon Carseand spinner Will Jackstesting their resolve against Australia’s formidable batting on a surface where the pacers claimed 124 off the last wicket.
Melbourne Weather Forecast for Boxing Day Test
Day 1
The opening day of the Test at the MCG is expected to be mostly cloudy and windy, with temperatures expected to drop to a cool 16 degrees during the day and 11 degrees at night. Strong south-southwesterly winds can make batting difficult, especially under lights, as low cloud cover can aid swing bowling. Although light showers are unlikely, rain is unlikely to disrupt play, making it ideal for fast bowlers to make early breakthroughs.
Day 2
Day two should bring similar challenges for the batters, with persistent low clouds and cooler weather continuing to help seam movement. The wind is expected to pick up in the afternoon, which helps the pacers more. The morning session could test the technique and patience of the top batters, although conditions are forecast to ease as the day progresses.
Day 3
The third day marks the clear change of weather, the arrival of sunshine and warm temperatures. Rain is not expected and the batting should be more comfortable without the proposed improved bounce. As the pitch settles, batsmen, especially in the middle order, can take control and score significant runs.
4th day
By the fourth day, the Test would be played under bright sunshine and rising heat. Warmer conditions will test players’ endurance and as the surface begins to show wear, the spinners may finally come into play. Tactical statements and calculated pursuits can determine the story of the day.
Day 5
The final day is forecast to be the hottest, with very warm and clear conditions favoring aggressive hitting. Any target set can be pursued with intent as long as the gates remain in hand. All in all, the improving MCG surface and uninterrupted weather promises a full, engaging contest where the bowlers strike early, cash in later and the match builds towards a dramatic summer finish.
Overall, the forecast points to minimal disruptions from cool, bowler-friendly opening days to later batting havens, fueling tactical intrigue at the MCG. Australia’s depth favors them, but England’s fightback depends on exploiting the early seam in these conditions.
