Can You Stream the Australia vs England Ashes Test for Free This Boxing Day?

The 4th Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a highly anticipated event, with Australia facing England in this historic cricket series. Fans can watch the Boxing Day Test through various platforms, including television broadcasts, streaming services, and online platforms, ensuring that cricket enthusiasts can enjoy the match from anywhere in the UK and beyond.

Last updated: 26 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The 4th Ashes Test commenced on 26 December 2023, with Australia and England competing in a thrilling contest at the MCG. This match marks the traditional Boxing Day Test, a fixture that attracts significant attention from cricket fans worldwide. As the series unfolds, viewers are eager to see how both teams perform, especially given the historical context of this long-standing rivalry.

Key takeaways

The 4th Ashes Test starts on 26 December 2023.
Multiple viewing options are available, including TV and online streaming.
Fans can access live coverage through various broadcasters in the UK and Australia.

Timeline: how we got here

The Ashes series has a rich history, with the 2023 edition being particularly noteworthy:

1 December 2023: The first Test began at the Gabba, Brisbane.
9 December 2023: The second Test was held at the Adelaide Oval.
17 December 2023: The third Test took place at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
26 December 2023: The 4th Test kicks off at the MCG.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As the 4th Test begins, the teams are finalising their line-ups based on player fitness and performance during the earlier Tests. Fans are keen to see any last-minute changes that could impact the match's outcome.

What was already established

Australia currently leads the series, putting pressure on England to perform well in the remaining matches. Historical performance trends suggest that the MCG can favour teams that adapt quickly to the conditions.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

UK cricket fans can expect increased interest in viewership during the Boxing Day Test, traditionally a festive period. This heightened attention may affect the availability of local pubs and venues broadcasting the game.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses, especially those in hospitality, stand to benefit from the influx of fans watching the match. Establishments may offer special promotions to attract customers during the Test.

Policy and regulation

There are no major regulatory changes affecting the broadcasting of the Ashes. However, ongoing discussions about sports rights and broadcasting regulations could influence future series.

Numbers that matter

4: The number of Tests in the 2023 Ashes series.
100,000: Estimated fans attending the MCG for the Boxing Day Test.
20: The number of venues in the UK broadcasting the match live.

Definitions and jargon buster

MCG: Melbourne Cricket Ground, one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world.
Ashes: A Test cricket series played between England and Australia.
Boxing Day Test: A Test match traditionally held on 26 December, coinciding with the Boxing Day holiday in Australia.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate aftermath of the 4th Test, fans will be closely following the results and implications for the final match of the series. The focus will be on player performances and potential injuries.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Fans can look forward to the upcoming series in 2024, where teams will assess their strategies based on performances in the current Ashes. Player selections and training camps will be pivotal in preparation.

Signals to watch

Player fitness updates leading into the Test.
Broadcasting ratings for the series.
Fan engagement levels on social media during the matches.

Practical guidance

Do

Check local listings for broadcast times and channels.
Consider streaming options if travelling or away from home.
Follow official social media accounts for live updates.

Don’t

Don't miss out on early ticket purchases for future matches.
Don't rely solely on social media for match updates; official broadcasters provide the most accurate coverage.
Don't forget to engage with fan communities for insights and discussions.

Checklist

Confirm the start time of the match in your local timezone.
Ensure your streaming subscription is active.
Gather friends for a viewing party to enhance the experience.
Prepare snacks and beverages for the match day.
Follow the teams on social media for behind-the-scenes content.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the match is set to proceed, weather conditions in Melbourne can be unpredictable, potentially leading to delays or interruptions. Additionally, player fitness updates may affect line-ups, so fans should stay informed about any last-minute changes. Streaming services may also experience outages during peak viewership times, so having alternative options is advisable.

Bottom line

The 4th Ashes Test at the MCG promises to be an exciting event for cricket fans. With multiple ways to watch the match, including TV and online streaming, enthusiasts can enjoy this historic contest from anywhere. Being prepared with the right information and options will ensure a seamless viewing experience.

FAQs

How can I watch the 4th Ashes Test live?

You can watch the 4th Ashes Test live on various broadcasters, including Sky Sports in the UK and Channel 7 in Australia, as well as through streaming services that offer live cricket coverage.

What time does the 4th Ashes Test start?

The match starts at 10:30 AM local time in Melbourne (AEDT), which is 11:30 PM the previous day in GMT (BST).

Will there be any highlights available for the match?

Yes, highlights will be available on the official cricket boards’ websites and social media channels, along with various sports news platforms shortly after the match concludes.