The Fourth Ashes Test commences this Wednesday September 4th at 7.30pm AEST, LIVE, EXCLUSIVELY and in HD on Nine and 9GEM and streamed live on 9Now.
Following a miracle win in the third Test in Headingley, England has finally found the momentum it needed, having not won an Ashes Test since 2015. It was Ben Stokes who once again played hero, replicating his brilliant World Cup Final form as he defied the odds and record books, to hold on for one of the most memorable finishes to a cricket match in history.
The historic Old Trafford Cricket Ground serves as the battleground for the fourth Test, with the confirmation that Aussie superstar Steve Smith will return to the side following a concussion suffered at the hands of a Jofra Archer bouncer. All eyes will be on him to see if he can reclaim the incredible form he exhibited in the first three Tests.
Australian selectors surprised many by dropping Usman Khawaja, opting to stick with the hardy Marnus Labuschagne in the 12-man squad, while the fast bowling rotation continues as Mitchell Starc comes back in to replace James Pattinson. They remain only one win away from once again securing The Ashes for the first time in England since 2001.
England meanwhile have shifted their much-maligned batting lineup, with streaky batsman Jason Roy expected to shift to the no.4 position, while journeyman Joe Denly has slotted into the opening spot alongside Rory Burns. The newly-confident home side has not minced words this past week, with English linchpin Stuart Broad warning Smith they will not hold back upon his return.
The 4th Ashes Test begins at 7:30pm AEST tomorrow night on Nine, 9GEM and 9Now (time and channel throughout the series varies by state – see below and check guides for details).
