Who Are the New Additions to Australia's Boxing Day Test Squad?
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Synopsis
Australia's cricket team sees new faces as Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson join the squad for the pivotal fourth Ashes Test starting December 26. With Nathan Lyon sidelined for surgery and Steve Smith's potential return, the stakes are high in this series. Discover the latest updates and implications for the team as they aim to maintain their lead.
Key Takeaways
- Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson join the Australian squad for the fourth Ashes Test.
- Nathan Lyon is out due to hamstring surgery.
- Steve Smith may return to captaincy.
- Richardson aims for a Test comeback after injuries.
- Australia leads the Ashes series 3-0.
Adelaide, Dec 23 (NationPress) Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson have been included in Australia's 15-member roster for the upcoming fourth Ashes Test, set to begin on December 26.
Murphy has outperformed Matt Kuhnemann and Corey Rocchiccioli to take Nathan Lyon's spot, as the seasoned off-spinner is preparing for surgery on his injured hamstring.
Having played seven Test matches for Australia, Murphy's last appearance was at the start of the year against Sri Lanka in Galle.
On Tuesday, Australia confirmed that Nathan Lyon will have surgery after suffering a torn right hamstring while attempting to prevent a boundary during the final day of the Ashes-sealing third Test.
In other news, Steve Smith is poised to reclaim the captaincy, pending clearance for the inner-ear issue that caused his absence in Adelaide, while Pat Cummins will miss the Boxing Day Test.
Richardson is a potential replacement for Cummins after returning from injury and rejoining the squad in Adelaide before the third Test.
The right-arm fast bowler has only played three Tests due to injuries, with his latest outing against England in Adelaide in 2021, but selectors maintain a high regard for the 29-year-old.
Richardson's inclusion in the squad positions him for a Test return after a four-year hiatus. He underwent his third shoulder surgery earlier this year and has gradually increased his bowling workload, training with the squad during the initial three Tests.
Meanwhile, all-rounders Michael Neser and Beau Webster, along with backup fast bowler Brendan Doggett, remain part of the squad despite their absence from selection in the recent Adelaide Test, which saw Australia secure an 82-run victory to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the Ashes series.
Australia squad (fourth Test only): Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
Point of View
I believe these adjustments to the Australian cricket squad highlight the depth and resilience of the team. With strategic selections and crucial returns from injuries, fans can anticipate an exciting showdown in the fourth Ashes Test. Our commitment remains to provide accurate and engaging coverage of national sports.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has been added to Australia's squad for the fourth Ashes Test?
Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson have been added to Australia's squad for the fourth Ashes Test, replacing Nathan Lyon.
Why is Nathan Lyon not playing in the fourth Test?
Nathan Lyon will undergo surgery for a torn right hamstring, which he sustained during the final day of the third Test.
What is the significance of Todd Murphy's selection?
Todd Murphy's selection signifies a strategic move by the selectors to bolster the spin attack in Lyon's absence, given his previous Test experience.
What is the status of Steve Smith's captaincy?
Steve Smith is expected to resume captaincy, pending clearance for the inner-ear problem that previously sidelined him.
How does Richardson's return impact the team?
Jhye Richardson's return adds depth to the bowling lineup, providing a potential replacement for Pat Cummins, who will miss the Boxing Day Test.
