AUS vs ENG 5th Test: Australia Dominate Ashes 2025-26 4–1 After Five-Wicket Win in Sydney Test

Australia sealed a commanding 4-1 Ashes series triumph with a composed five-wicket victory in the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, capping off a series where they consistently stayed a step ahead of England.

The match began on a rain-curtailed opening day with England recovering well after early setbacks. Joe Root and Harry Brook stitched together an unbroken fourth-wicket stand to steady the innings, guiding England to 211 for 3 on a surface that offered limited assistance to the bowlers. Root’s calm assurance and Brook’s fluent strokeplay ensured England regained control despite interruptions caused by poor light and rain.

Day 2 belonged largely to Root, who posted his 41st century with a sublime 160 to propel England to a competitive 384. However, Australia, in reply, ensured the advantage remained modest. Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne counter-punched effectively, with Head’s aggressive intent setting the tone as Australia closed the day still trailing but firmly in the contest.

Momentum swung decisively on Day 3. Head converted his start into a commanding 163, while Steven Smith produced a masterclass of patience and flair, finishing unbeaten on 129. Their efforts powered Australia to a substantial first-innings total of 567, handing the hosts a vital 183-run lead and placing England firmly under pressure.

England showed resilience in their second innings, led by Jacob Bethell, who struck a brilliant maiden Test century. Partnerships provided brief hope, but familiar collapses at crucial moments prevented England from seizing control. Despite Bethell’s determined 142* on Day 4, England’s lead remained slender heading into the final day.

On Day 5, Mitchell Starc cleaned up the tail swiftly before Australia were set a target of 160. A brisk opening stand laid the foundation, and while England engineered a brief wobble with timely wickets, the chase never drifted far from Australia’s grasp. Calm heads prevailed as Alex Carey and Cameron Green guided the hosts home, with Carey sealing victory in style.

The Sydney Test summed up the series as England were competitive in patches, but Australia were ruthless when it mattered most. The five-wicket win not only secured the match but also underlined Australia’s dominance throughout the Ashes.