Australia has concluded a dominant Ashes campaign with a hard-fought five-wicket victory in the final Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, securing a comprehensive 4-1 series triumph over England. The hosts successfully chased their 160-run target during the fifth day’s lunch session, despite facing some tense moments as wickets fell during the pursuit.
The match marked the emotional farewell of Australian batsman Usman Khawaja, who received a ceremonial guard of honor from English players in his final Test appearance. Khawaja, playing his 88th and final Test match, acknowledged struggling with emotions throughout the game. “The whole Test match I found it hard to control my emotions,” the retiring veteran stated, nearly in tears as he left the field to a standing ovation after scoring six runs in his final innings.
England’s hopes briefly flickered when they reduced Australia to 121-5, with Marnus Labuschagne’s unnecessary run-out providing temporary momentum. However, the victory never appeared seriously in doubt following England’s second-innings total of 342, built primarily upon Jacob Bethell’s impressive 154-run contribution.
Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey, who hit the winning runs alongside Cameron Green (22 not out), acknowledged the tense atmosphere: “That’s Ashes cricket. Everyone got tense. Usman is going to be missed. A great career and a great way to finish.”
The series outcome proved particularly disappointing for England, who arrived confident of securing their first series win in Australia since 2010-11. Their tour quickly deteriorated into what commentators termed a “horror show” after losing the opening two Tests in Perth and Brisbane by eight wickets, followed by an 82-run defeat in Adelaide.
Despite facing heavy criticism for their preparations, discipline, and aggressive “Bazball” approach, England managed a stunning four-wicket comeback victory in the fourth Test at Melbourne—their first win in 18 Tests on Australian soil. However, the final defeat in Sydney ensures they will face rigorous scrutiny upon returning home, with coach Brendon McCullum’s position potentially at risk.
England captain Ben Stokes conceded: “Australia are an incredible team. They had individuals who stood up. Full credit to them. But we know we could have done better.” He added that reflection would come later: “Time for reflection is not right now. We’ve got a long time away to reflect on it.”
Australia’s achievement appears more remarkable considering they competed without pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood throughout the series and captain Pat Cummins for all but one Test, while veteran spinner Nathan Lyon played a limited role. Mitchell Starc emerged as the series’ leading bowler with 31 wickets.
The match witnessed controversy when the Snicko technology—unreliable throughout the series—appeared to indicate a faint edge from Jake Weatherald that was ultimately dismissed upon review, triggering heated exchanges between players.
The series attracted nearly 860,000 spectators, with a record 211,032 passing through the turnstiles in Sydney alone, demonstrating the enduring appeal of cricket’s oldest rivalry.