England's selection for the upcoming Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has been met with criticism, with observers suggesting it highlights deeper issues within the team. The most notable change is the dropping of Ollie Pope, a decision that has sparked debate and raised questions about his future in the side.

Former England captain Michael Atherton supported the decision to drop Pope, viewing it as a necessary reset rather than a punishment. Atherton highlighted Pope's struggles at No. 3 in Australian conditions, stating that he "looked too insecure in what is a vital position". He emphasized the importance of protecting players in such a demanding role after a string of low scores. In his column for The Times, Atherton noted that Pope's away average has fallen below 30, and his average against Australia is a meager 17. Geoffrey Boycott has also heavily criticized Pope, stating, "Ollie Pope is a lost cause because he never learns".

Jacob Bethell has been brought in to replace Pope at No. 3. Bethell, who made his Test debut last year in New Zealand, has played four Test matches, averaging 38.71 with the bat. He also took three wickets with his left-arm spin at 31.33. Bethell made a fighting 71 for England Lions against Australia A in Brisbane two weeks prior, which may have boosted the confidence of the selectors.

The other change to the England XI sees Gus Atkinson replacing Jofra Archer, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes tour due to a left side strain. Archer's absence is a significant blow to England, as he has been arguably their best bowler in the series, taking nine wickets.

England's batting has struggled throughout the series, with the team collectively managing only 67.3 overs across both innings in the first Test. Key players such as Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope have faced immense pressure, with their positions in the team under scrutiny. Former players and analysts have criticized England's batting approach, with some labeling it as "brainless" and "reckless". England has already lost the first three tests. England squad visited Noosa on the Sunshine Coast north of Brisbane between the second and third tests. A video emerged that appeared to show Ben Duckett unable to remember how to get back to the hotel.

England's XI for the fourth Test is: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue.

Ben Stokes has admitted that this is probably the toughest time he has faced as England captain and has called for "empathy" towards his teammates. He emphasized his commitment to protecting his players, especially in difficult moments. Stokes also acknowledged the challenges of playing all three formats and spending a significant amount of time away from home.

With the Ashes already lost, England will be aiming to salvage pride and avoid a series whitewash in the remaining two Tests. However, they face a tough challenge against a dominant Australian side in their home conditions.