SYDNEY — The fifth and decisive Ashes test commenced at Sydney Cricket Ground under unprecedented security measures following recent tragic events in Bondi Beach. England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and elected to bat first in what marks Usman Khawaja’s farewell appearance in his 88th and final test match for Australia.
Both teams implemented strategic changes to their lineups. England introduced pace bowler Matthew Potts as replacement for injured Gus Atkinson, while Australia gave all-rounder Beau Webster his series debut in place of Jhye Richardson. Notably, Webster’s inclusion marks Australia’s first test at SCG without a specialist spinner since the 1887-88 season, a decision captain Steve Smith attributed to current pitch conditions favoring pace over spin.
The match began with solemn tributes honoring victims and first responders of the recent Bondi Beach attack that claimed 15 lives three weeks prior. The emotional pre-game ceremony featured a guard of honor and collective applause from the capacity crowd.
Security presence exceeded normal sporting event protocols, with tactical police units, mounted officers, and riot squad personnel deployed throughout the venue. England enters the final test having broken their losing streak with a four-wicket victory in the Boxing Day test, though previous matches saw Australia retain the Ashes within just 11 days of play.
Lineups:
Australia: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (captain), Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland.
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Matthew Potts, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue.