What Is the Ashes 4th Test?
The fourth Test of the 2026-27 Ashes series brings England and Australia together at the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the traditional Boxing Day Test. The MCG Test is one of the most iconic fixtures in world cricket, regularly attracting crowds in excess of 80,000 on the opening day. Coming at the three-quarter point of the five-match series, the fourth Test is often pivotal in determining who holds the urn.
When Is the 4th Ashes Test?
The fourth Test runs from Saturday 26 December to Wednesday 30 December 2026. Play begins at 10:30am local time (AEDT) each day, which corresponds to 11:30pm the previous evening in the United Kingdom. The Boxing Day start makes this one of the most-watched days of cricket in the annual calendar.
Where Is the 4th Ashes Test?
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is located in Yarra Park, Melbourne, Victoria, approximately one kilometre from the city centre. With a capacity of over 100,000, it is the largest cricket ground in the world and one of the most celebrated sporting venues on the planet. The MCG is easily accessible by tram, train (to Richmond or Jolimont stations), and on foot from the CBD.
Key Contenders and What to Watch For
The MCG pitch typically offers pace and bounce in the early stages before flattening out as the match progresses. Fast bowlers tend to dominate the opening sessions, while spinners can come into play later in the Test. Australia’s home advantage is significant at the MCG, where they have a strong record in Ashes contests. England’s touring sides have historically found Melbourne a difficult ground, though memorable victories in 2010 and other years have shown that the MCG can reward bold, attacking cricket from either side.
How to Watch the 4th Ashes Test
In Australia, the match is broadcast live on Channel 7 and Fox Cricket. UK viewers can watch on BT Sport or TNT Sports, with radio commentary on BBC Test Match Special. International audiences can access coverage through the broadcasters’ respective streaming platforms and through Kayo Sports in Australia.
History of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG
The MCG has hosted Test cricket since 1877, when it staged the very first Test match between Australia and England. The Boxing Day Test has been a fixture of the Australian cricket summer since the 1950s and has produced countless memorable Ashes moments. Shane Warne’s 700th Test wicket, taken at the MCG in the 2006-07 Ashes, remains one of the ground’s most iconic cricketing moments. The venue has hosted more Ashes Tests than any other ground in the world.
Tickets for the 4th Ashes Test
Tickets are available through Cricket Australia’s official website and Ticketmaster. The Boxing Day opening day sells out well in advance, and early booking is essential. General admission, reserved seating, and corporate hospitality packages are available. Multi-day passes offer savings for those attending several days of the Test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Boxing Day Test at the MCG so special?
The Boxing Day Test combines the festive atmosphere with the grandeur of the MCG. The opening day crowd of 80,000-plus creates an electric atmosphere, and the fixture has produced some of the most memorable moments in Ashes history.
What time does play start in the UK?
Play begins at 11:30pm GMT (the previous evening), meaning UK fans follow the action overnight and into the early hours of the morning.
What is the MCG pitch like for Ashes cricket?
The MCG pitch typically offers pace and bounce early on, favouring fast bowlers. It tends to flatten out as the match progresses, often making batting easier on days three and four before variable bounce can return late in the Test.
How do I get to the MCG?
The MCG is a short walk from Richmond and Jolimont railway stations and is served by several tram routes from the Melbourne CBD. Free public transport is often available on major event days within the city zone.