Australia sealed a commanding 4-1 series win in the 2025-26 Ashes by defeating England by five wickets on the final day of the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Chasing a modest target of 160, the hosts faced some tense moments, slipping to 121 for 5, but held their nerve to complete the victory. Fast bowler Josh Tongue claimed three wickets for England, providing brief hope.
The urn was already retained after just 11 days of cricket across the series, marking one of the quickest resolutions. The Sydney encounter stood out as the only Test to reach the fifth day.
England secured a solitary win in the fourth Test at Melbourne, triumphing in two days on a challenging pitch, their first Test success on Australian soil since 2011.
Series Outcome and Key Moments
Captain Ben Stokes, hampered by a groin injury sustained on day four that prevented him bowling in Australia’s second innings, reflected on the opponents mastering England’s approach.
He noted that rival teams have learned to counter when batting appears straightforward against his side.
Stokes emphasised the need to address risky strategies, stating the team often plays shots with low success probability, which rarely pays off in crucial phases.
Criticism mounted over England’s limited preparation, with only one intra-squad warm-up match ahead of the tour.
Stokes expressed desire to continue as captain, though uncertainty surrounds head coach Brendon McCullum’s future, especially with his commitments to the white-ball team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in February.
The England and Wales Cricket Board has initiated a review of the campaign, with chief executive Richard Gould pledging required adjustments in the months ahead.
Highlights from the Decisive Test
In a match featuring strong individual performances, Australia posted a large first-innings total led by centuries from Travis Head and Steve Smith.
England responded with notable contributions, including centuries from Joe Root in the first innings and young Jacob Bethell in the second.
Mitchell Starc emerged as Player of the Series for his 31 wickets, proving instrumental throughout.
The series highlighted Australia’s depth and dominance at home, while raising questions for England about strategy and readiness for future contests.
