Ashes 2025-26: Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon Ruled Out of Boxing Day Test

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Ashes 2025-26: Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon Ruled Out of Boxing Day Test: The Australian cricket team today announced their 15-member squad for the fourth match of the ongoing Ashes series against England. However, captain Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, who played in the third Test match at the Adelaide Oval, have not been included in the squad. Once again, in Cummins' absence, experienced batsman Steve Smith has been appointed as the stand-in captain.

Pat Cummins' Replacement: Jhye Richardson's Return

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Regular captain Pat Cummins will be rested for the fourth Test as part of workload management. Fast bowler Jhye Richardson has been included in the squad in his place.

• Proof of Fitness: Richardson recently proved his form and fitness by taking 5 wickets in an innings against England Lions.
• Long Wait: Interestingly, Richardson is returning to Test cricket after almost four years. He played his last Test in the 2021 Ashes series.

Nathan Lyon's Replacement: Young Todd Murphy Gets a Chance

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Veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon suffered a serious hamstring injury during the Adelaide Test, which will require surgery. In his absence, Australia has placed its trust in young spinner Todd Murphy.

• Todd Murphy is returning to the Test format for the first time since February this year. Replacing a legend like Lyon will be both a big challenge and an opportunity for him.

Steve Smith to Lead the Team

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In Pat Cummins' absence, experienced batsman Steve Smith will once again lead the team.

Since Australia has already secured an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series, the team management has decided to rest Cummins so that he can be fresh for the upcoming matches.

"Pat Cummins will not be playing in the match as part of his ongoing workload management plan. Nathan Lyon will undergo surgery, which will keep him out of action for an extended period." - Cricket Australia

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Australia's 15-member squad for the Boxing Day Test:

1. Steve Smith (captain)
2. Scott Boland
3. Alex Carey
4. Brendan Doggett
5. Cameron Green
6. Travis Head
7. Josh Inglis
8. Usman Khawaja
9. Marnus Labuschagne
10. Todd Murphy
11. Michael Neser
12. Jhye Richardson
13. Mitchell Starc
14. Jake Weatherald
15. Beau Webster

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