The Ashes series may already be decided, but the rivalry remains intense as the focus shifts to the iconic Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Australia vs England returns to center stage, with the hosts holding a dominant 3–0 series lead and firmly in control. England, meanwhile, face a crucial challenge as they look to restore confidence and avoid further setbacks in one of cricket’s most historic fixtures.
From a fantasy and analysis perspective, this encounter carries unique intrigue. While dead rubbers can sometimes bring experimentation, the Boxing Day Test at the MCG rarely lacks intensity. Australia will be targeting a comprehensive series sweep, whereas England will be determined to play for pride and momentum in a high-pressure environment.
Match Details
- Series: The Ashes (4th Test)
- Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
- Date & Time: Dec 25, 2025, 23:30 GMT (Boxing Day)
The Psychology: Pride vs. Ruthlessness
England is in a tough spot. Losing the first three games at Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth has exposed their batting fragility. The psychological weight of a potential 5-0 whitewash is heavy. Historically, teams in this position either crumble completely or play with the freedom of having nothing to lose.
Australia, on the other hand, is a machine at home. With the series in the bag, they might play even more aggressively. The key for your fantasy teams is to back the confident side (Australia) while picking only the most resilient performers from the struggling side (England).
Pitch Report: The MCG Factor
The MCG pitch has evolved over the years. The stats from the last 5 matches paint a clear picture: Pacers dominate here.
- Pacer Wickets: 124
- Spinner Wickets: 50
- Avg Score: 250
Expect bounce and carry early on. The average score of 250 suggests this isn't a flat road; bowlers are always in the game. While Nathan Lyon enjoys the drop in pitch bounce, the quicks are the primary point scorers in fantasy contests here.
Weather Forecast
Melbourne weather can be unpredictable. For Boxing Day 2025, forecasts suggest a mild day with temperatures around 22°C. It will be partly cloudy, which might assist swing bowlers like Mitchell Starc and Jofra Archer in the first session. There is a slight breeze expected, but rain probability is low for Day 1.
Probable Playing XI
Based on the recent lineup data, here is how the teams are shaping up.
Australia: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue.
Key Fantasy Picks
Mitchell Starc He is the highest fantasy point generator for Australia recently. With 93% selection, he is a safe block. His ability to clean up the tail with yorkers makes him essential.
Travis Head Head has been in beast mode, scoring centuries in Adelaide and Perth. His counter attacking style works well even if early wickets fall. He is a prime Captaincy candidate.
Ben Stokes Despite England's struggles, Stokes fights. He contributes with both bat and ball (taking 5 wickets in Perth). He is the safest pick from the English camp.
Joe Root Root scored a century in Brisbane and is England's technical rock. If anyone can handle the MCG bounce, it is him.
Scott Boland Do not ignore the local lad. Boland has an incredible record at the MCG. His line and length are perfect for this pitch, and at 8.0 credits, he is a steal.
Captaincy & Vice Captaincy Strategy
- Safe Options: Travis Head, Mitchell Starc, Ben Stokes
- Risky/Differential: Pat Cummins, Jofra Archer, Joe Root
Fantasy Strategy for Mega Leagues
- Pace is King: Load your bowling attack with fast bowlers. A 4-1 or 5-0 split in favor of pacers over spinners is advisable.
- Avoid English Top Order: Aside from Root or Crawley, the English top order has been fragile against the new ball. It might be safer to pick Australian bowlers instead.
- The Boland Factor: In Grand Leagues, making Scott Boland your VC could be the game changing move given his history at this venue.
Disclaimer
This analysis is based on publicly available data, recent performances, and match conditions. Team selections, player availability, and match circumstances may change before the start of play. Fantasy sports involve risk, and outcomes can vary based on real-time events such as toss decisions and on-field performance.