Match at a glance
The fourth Test of the 2023–24 Ashes series takes place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from Friday, December 26. Australia and England meet in the traditional Boxing Day Test, with five days of red-ball action scheduled through to December 30. Expect intense rivalry, big crowds and full Test-match routines across the five days.
Venue and conditions
Ground: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
Surface: The MCG traditionally offers a true, pace-friendly surface early in a Test with variable bounce. As the game progresses the pitch can flatten out, favouring batters on the fourth and fifth days. Daylight, overhead conditions and any measure of wear will be key factors.
Dates & session timing
- Dates: Friday, December 26 to Tuesday, December 30 (five-day Test)
- Typical session structure: play usually begins in the late morning local time, with three sessions separated by lunch and tea breaks. Check local listings for the exact start time in your region.
Squads and selection
Both teams will name their match XI before the toss. Expect selectors to weigh pitch and weather conditions when finalising playing XIs — look out for decisions around fast-bowling workloads at the MCG and whether either side picks an extra spinner or batter. For the final team lists, watch the toss or the official announcements on match day.
How to watch — live TV and streaming
Live coverage is provided through the official broadcasters in each country. If you plan to stream the match, use the authorised broadcaster apps or streaming platforms in your region to ensure live, legal coverage. Common viewing options include:
- Australia: Expect free-to-air coverage as well as subscription streaming from the host broadcasters. Broadcasters usually provide both live TV and streaming options.
- United Kingdom: The match is shown live via the UK rights-holder that covers overseas Tests; streaming may be available through the broadcaster’s online platform or app.
- India and South Asia: Major sports networks that hold overseas cricket rights usually carry live telecasts and streams via their streaming services or apps.
- North America, New Zealand, Pakistan and other regions: Check the local sports broadcasters and their streaming services; many countries offer both TV and online coverage through official partners.
Tip: If you’re unsure who is broadcasting in your country, search for the official broadcaster listings for the Ashes or check the cricket boards’ announcements. Official broadcaster apps, authenticated streaming platforms and radio commentaries are reliable ways to follow the match live.
Live audio and ball-by-ball options
If you can’t watch, live ball-by-ball commentary is commonly available via radio and official digital platforms. Many broadcasters and cricket apps offer audio streams, text commentary and detailed scorecards so you can follow every session in real time.
What to expect on the field
- Fast bowling battle: The MCG’s pace-friendly characteristics usually favour quicks who can extract bounce and hit the deck hard.
- Batsmen under pressure: Early movement and occasional variable bounce will test technique, especially against high-quality pace attacks.
- Key moments: The toss, early morning conditions and how both teams manage their bowling workloads are likely to decide the contest.
Practical viewing advice
- Confirm local start times and broadcasters a day before play.
- Stream via official broadcaster apps to avoid blackouts and feed interruptions.
- Check whether you need a subscription for live streaming and whether the platform offers multi-device access.
Final note
The Boxing Day Test at the MCG is one of cricket’s great traditions. Whether you’re at the ground or streaming from home, expect a packed stadium, big atmospheres and a high-stakes Test that could define the Ashes series. Keep an eye on official broadcaster schedules and team announcements on match day for the most accurate, up-to-date information.