England head into the Boxing Day Test under pressure after a major setback, with Jofra Archer ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes series. In keeping with their tradition, England has revealed the playing XI for the fourth Test of the Ashes series 48 hours before the match begins. Batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell will take Pope's place in the playing XI, while Gus Atkinson will step in for Jofra Archer, who has made a notable impact in the three Test matches played so far. The fourth Test of the series is set to take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) starting December 26. England playing XI for 4th Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (capt), Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue.

Source: dna December 24, 2025 11:40 UTC