Jhye Richardson, Todd Murphy recalled as Australia announce squad for Boxing Day Test

Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson have been recalled to the Australian team for the Boxing Day Test against England, which starts on December 26 at the MCG. Australia have announced a 15-member squad for the 4th Test, and Murphy and Richardson come in as replacements for Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins.

Notably, Murphy last played Test cricket for Australia against Sri Lanka in Galle earlier this year, whereas Richardson's last red-ball appearance came during the 2021-22 Ashes, at the Adelaide Oval. Richardson had bagged a four-wicket haul against England Lions in a first-class game in Brisbane earlier this month. He is currently a part of the Perth Scorchers' set-up in the Big Bash League season 15.

On the other hand, right-arm off-spinner Murphy is also participating in the BBL and is part of Sydney Sixers.

Richardson and Murphy have come in place of Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, who have been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes due to injuries. Cummins needs to manage his back, and his T20 World Cup participation has also come under serious doubt, whereas Cricket Australia has confirmed that Lyon's recovery will take a long time.

The veteran off-spinner underwent surgery on Tuesday after he tore his right hamstring while fielding on day 5 of the Adelaide Test.

Steve Smith will captain Australia in the absence of Cummins, as he comes back into the squad after missing the third Test due to Vertigo-like symptoms.

Australia squad for the Boxing Day Test:

Steven Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.