MELBOURNE: Steve Smith is set to return to action in the Boxing Day Test against England, with Australia naming a 12-man squad stacked with fast-bowling firepower. The hosts have opted for an all-pace approach, leaving spinner Todd Murphy out despite being drafted into the squad as cover for the injured Nathan Lyon.
Fast bowler Jhye Richardson earns a recall after impressive domestic performances, marking his first involvement in Test cricket since 2021 following shoulder surgery. Brendan Doggett, who featured in the opening two Tests, and Michael Neser, part of the pink-ball match, have also been included as Australia double down on seam options.
Smith, who missed the Adelaide Test after suffering from vertigo, said conditions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground shaped the team’s thinking. “You just got to play what surface you’re presented with,” he explained, noting the pitch has a thick covering of grass and is expected to assist movement under cold and overcast skies.
With conditions favouring pace, Australia’s selection underlines their intent to exploit the surface and maintain pressure on England in a pivotal Boxing Day clash.
