Melbourne: Australia will field an all-pace attack in the fourth Ashes Test against England, skipper Steve Smith confirmed Thursday. Josh Inglis was dropped as Usman Khawaja returns to the batting lineup. Australia already holds an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series.
The hosts will be without spearhead Pat Cummins and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon. Cummins is being managed after a lower back injury, ruling him out for the remainder of the Ashes. Lyon recently had surgery for a torn hamstring and faces a long recovery period.
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Todd Murphy was called as cover for Lyon, but Smith opted for four fast bowlers due to Melbourne Cricket Ground’s “furry” surface. He highlighted that the pitch has 10 millimeters of grass and may aid seamers, especially under cold, overcast conditions on day one.
Australia named a 12-man squad, with a final decision on the pace attack made at the toss. Players competing for a spot include Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, or Brendan Doggett. Richardson returns after three shoulder surgeries and his first selection in four years.
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Smith, back after missing the third Test due to vertigo, said he feels fully recovered and ready. Khawaja, who scored 82 and 40 in Adelaide, slides to number five. Australia aims to leverage the conditions and continue its dominant run against England.