Australia announce team for fourth Ashes Test:Steven Smith to captain after Pat Cummins’ injury; Lyon also out for match to start from 26 Dec

The fourth Test match of the Ashes series between Australia and England will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This match will start on 26 December. For the fourth match, Australia has announced its team. Notably, Aussies have already retained the Urn, claiming the series 3-0. The team has suffered two major setbacks before this Test. Captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the series due to injury after playing the third Test. In his absence, Steve Smith will once again captain the team. Meanwhile, experienced spinner Nathan Lyon has also been ruled out due to injury and has undergone surgery. Also Read: Mohsin Naqvi to file complaint to ICC over India’s ‘provocative behaviour ‘: BCCI to review India’s defeat against Pakistan; U19 final controversy intensifies Todd Murphy gets chance on Australian team for fourth Test Lyon tore his hamstring while fielding during the Adelaide Test, after which he underwent surgery. Coach Andrew McDonald said Lyon might take time to recover. Todd Murphy has been included in the 15-member squad in place of Lyon. If Murphy plays, it will be the first time in 14 years that Australia will field a lone specialist spinner other than Lyon in a home Test. However, the coach also clarified that they might go with four fast bowlers at the MCG. Cummins is out for the rest of the series Changes are also possible in the fast bowling department for Australia. Captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the rest of the series due to a back injury. In such a situation, Jhye Richardson can make a comeback in Tests after almost four years. Meanwhile, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland are fit and available to play. Batting order changes possibilities Steve Smith has returned and will captain again. Smith’s return to number four could lead to changes in the middle order. Coach McDonald said he likes the opening pair of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald. While praising Usman Khawaja, the coach said he could also play at number five. Meanwhile, indications have been given to retain Alex Carey at number six. There are certainly questions about Cameron Green’s form, but the coach expressed confidence that he is an important part of the team’s future. If the all-rounder’s spot at number seven comes up, Beau Webster’s return is also possible. Also Read: On this day, MS Dhoni made his international debut: Former India captain got run out for a golden duck Australia Squad Steve Smith (Captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jack Vedrald, Beau Webster.