It’s been one-way traffic in the first three Tests of the 2025-26 Ashes Series with the Australians holding an unassailable 3-0 over England heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
While the chance to reclaim the Ashes may already be gone there’s still plenty of motivation for an England squad that, in many instances, are playing for their Test futures.
On the biggest day on the Australian cricketing calendar, the MCG will be packed, the Barmy Army will be in full voice and the Santa hats will be everywhere you look. Who will emerge victorious?
AllSportsPeople looks at the key details ahead of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, including how to watch the match and start times.
What time does the Fourth Ashes Test start between Australia and England?
The Fourth 2025-26 Ashes Test between Australia and England takes place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from Friday December 26 to Tuesday December 30.
The first ball will be bowled at 10:30 a.m. Local time.
Here’s how that time translates across Australia.
| Date | First Ball |
Australian Eastern Daylight Time | Fri, Dec. 26 | 10:30 a.m. |
Australian Eastern Standard Time | Fri, Dec. 26 | 9:30 a.m. |
Australian Central Daylight Time | Fri, Dec. 26 | 10:00 a.m. |
Australian Western Standard Time | Fri, Dec. 26 | 7:30 a.m. |
Australia vs. England Fourth Ashes Test live stream, TV channel
- Free-to-air channel: Channel 7
- Live stream: Kayo, Foxtel, 7plus
The 2025-26 Ashes series is available for live TV broadcast on Fox Cricket and Channel 7 in Australia. Streaming options are available on Foxtel, 7plus and Kayo Sports.
New users of Kayo can currently sign up for a FREE trial. This dedicated streaming service offers affordable, contract-free plans starting at just $25 per month. Plus, it’s a paradise for sports fans, streaming plenty of live action, including cricket, AFL, F1, and much more.
What is the Test match schedule for the 2025-26 Ashes?
The 2025-26 Ashes Test series is a part of the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. Here is the full schedule for the five-match series:
Fixture | Date | Venue | Result |
AUS vs ENG 1st Test | Nov 21-25 | Perth Stadium | Australia won by 8 wickets |
AUS vs ENG 2nd Test (D/N) | Dec 4-8 | The Gabba, Brisbane | Australia won by 8 wickets |
AUS vs ENG 3rd Test | Dec 17-21 | Adelaide Oval | Australia won by 82 runs |
AUS vs ENG 4th Test | Dec 26-30 | Melbourne Cricket Ground |
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AUS vs ENG 5th Test | Jan 4-8 | Sydney Cricket Ground |