England has announced their playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test against Australia, making two changes from the Adelaide game. Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the series due to a side strain, and Ollie Pope will miss the upcoming match.
New Faces in the Squad
Jacob Bethell, a left-handed batting all-rounder, comes into the side and is listed to bat at No. 3. Fast bowler Gus Atkinson also returns after missing the last outing. The fourth Ashes Test is set to begin on Boxing Day, December 26, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated, “England have made two changes to the XI that played in the third Test in Adelaide. Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the tour with a left side strain, and Surrey batter Ollie Pope misses out.”
Series Context
England has already lost the series, with Australia winning the first three matches and taking an unassailable 3-0 lead. The Ben Stokes-led side lost their opening match by eight wickets in Perth, and similarly fell to defeat in the second Test at the Gabba.
The visitors showcased a competitive performance in the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, extending the match to the fifth day. Despite a strong closing on Day 4, the Aussie bowlers efficiently secured the final four wickets on the last day, sealing the win.
England’s Playing XI for the MCG Test:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Jacob Bethell
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (c)
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- Will Jacks
- Gus Atkinson
- Brydon Carse
- Josh Tongue