Australia sealed a comprehensive 4-1 series win in the 2025-26 Ashes, chasing down a modest target of 160 with five wickets in hand on the final day of the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Alex Carey struck the winning runs amid a late England fightback, capping off a triumphant home summer for Pat Cummins’ side.
Despite a valiant effort from England’s young gun Jacob Bethell, who scored a brilliant 154 in the second innings, the tourists couldn’t prevent Australia’s dominance. The hosts had already retained the urn by winning the first three Tests in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, before England claimed a consolation victory in a dramatic two-day affair in Melbourne.
In the decider, England posted 384 in their first innings, highlighted by centuries from Joe Root and others, but Australia responded emphatically with 567, powered by Travis Head’s aggressive 163 and Steve Smith’s steady 138. England’s second innings reached 342, largely thanks to Bethell’s maiden Test ton and resilient partnerships, setting Australia a chase of 160.
The run chase wasn’t without drama—England’s bowlers snared early wickets, causing a brief wobble—but Australia’s experienced middle order held firm. Mitchell Starc starred with the ball throughout the series, claiming 31 wickets to join an elite list alongside legends like Shane Warne.
The result underscores Australia’s stranglehold on home Ashes series, exposing vulnerabilities in England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach against top-tier pace attacks. For England captain Ben Stokes, hampered by injury in the final Test, questions linger about the strategy’s effectiveness down under.
Australia’s player ratings featured perfect 10s for standouts like Starc and Head, while debutant Beau Webster impressed with key contributions. England heads home with positives in emerging talents like Bethell, but rueing missed opportunities in a lopsided contest.
The Ashes urn remains firmly in Australian hands, with the next battle set for England in 2027.