The highly anticipated Boxing Day Test between Australia and England will take place from December 26 to December 30, 2025, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This fourth test of the Ashes series promises to deliver intense competition as Australia aims for a 5-0 series whitewash, while England seeks to regain its footing after a challenging tour.
Australia has displayed dominance throughout the series, with players like Travis Head stepping up as an emergency opener and Mitchell Starc leading a formidable bowling attack. The Australian team is keen to finish the series on a high note, particularly with the prospect of defeating England decisively. Steve Smith, returning from an ear complaint, will captain the side, while Pat Cummins has been rested to manage a recurring back issue.
In contrast, England’s squad is grappling with a lack of preparation and strategic missteps. Ben Stokes, the England captain, is determined to inspire his team to salvage some pride from this tour. The team has undergone changes, including the introduction of Jacob Bethell in place of Ollie Pope and a recall for Gus Atkinson following Jofra Archer’s injury, which sidelines him for the rest of the series.
How to Watch the Boxing Day Test Live
Fans across the globe can catch the action live. In Australia, the match will be available for free on 7Plus, Channel 7’s streaming service. To access this service, viewers outside Australia can use a VPN to bypass geographical restrictions, with NordVPN being a recommended option for reliable access.
For viewers in the United States, the coverage will be available on Willow TV. If Willow TV is not included in your cable package, it can be accessed via streaming services like Sling TV, starting from $10 per month.
In the United Kingdom, TNT Sports is set to broadcast the test, with coverage commencing at 11:30 PM GMT on December 25. A standalone subscription to Discovery+ is available for those wishing to view the match without a cable package, starting from £30.99 per month.
Indian fans can enjoy the match through Star Sports or the JioHotstar app, with prices starting at ₹299 (approximately $3.49) for mobile access.
In South Africa, Supersport will provide coverage, requiring viewers to subscribe to a DStv access package starting at R99 per month. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, Sky Sport NZ will be broadcasting the match, with subscription options available starting at $29.99 per day or $54.99 monthly.
Match Details and Expectations
The Boxing Day Test holds a special place in the sporting calendar, and this year’s contest is no exception. The match is scheduled to start at various times globally: 6:30 PM ET (day before), 11:30 PM GMT (day before), 10:30 AM AEDT, and 5:00 AM IST each day.
Australia’s team lineup will include players such as Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (captain), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, alongside others. England’s expected XI features Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Ben Stokes (captain), among others.
This test match is not only crucial for the Ashes series but also for the morale of both teams. While Australia looks to solidify its dominance, England must confront its shortcomings and find a way to recover some dignity in the series.
With significant changes and a fierce rivalry at play, cricket fans worldwide are gearing up for an exciting showdown this Boxing Day. Whether in Australia, the UK, the US, or beyond, opportunities to watch the match abound, ensuring that fans do not miss a moment of this historic event.
