Australia xii

MCG Test: Australian stand-in captain Steve Smith opted for an all-pace attack for the fourth Ashes Test against England with the hosts yet to settle on their Playing XI.

Smith announced the final 12 for the fourth Test after Australia’s last training session on Thursday and said selectors would assess the “quite furry” MCG pitch again on Friday morning before finalising their pace attack, with Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett and returning quick Jhye Richardson vying for the final two places.

"We've landed on a 12, we just want to take a look at the wicket tomorrow. We're going to be playing four quicks and no spinner. (The pitch) has 10mm of grass, quite furry, quite green.