The 2025-26 Ashes may already be decided, with Australia holding an unassailable 3-1 lead and the urn safely retained. However, as the series moves to the historic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) for the fifth and final Test starting January 4, there is far more than just “dead rubber” pride at stake.
From legendary farewells to critical World Test Championship points, the “Pink Test” promises a high-stakes finale to an exhausting summer.
The Smith Era (Again): Cummins Rested for T20 World Cup
In a major tactical shift, Australia will finish the series without their regular captain. Pat Cummins has been rested for the Sydney finale to manage a recurring lower back injury and ensure he is peak condition for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in February.
Veteran Steve Smith takes the reins once more, leading an unchanged 15-member squad. While Smith’s captaincy brings a sense of calm, the absence of Cummins’ searing pace and leadership leaves a void that England will be desperate to exploit.
The Khawaja Farewell? Speculation Hits Fever Pitch
The emotional heart of the Sydney Test is Usman Khawaja. At 39 years old, the veteran batter has been named in the squad for his home ground despite a challenging series where he was shifted from opener to the middle order.
Speculation is rife that Khawaja will use the SCG—the same venue where he made his debut in 2011—to announce his international retirement. Former greats and current coaches alike are calling for “Uzzy” to go out on his own terms, potentially with one last signature century in front of the Sydney faithful.
England’s Momentum: The Melbourne Miracle
England arrives in Sydney with their chests out for the first time in weeks. Their four-wicket victory at the MCG was their first Test win on Australian soil in 15 years, breaking a 16-match winless streak Down Under.
Led by Ben Stokes’ tactical clarity and a resurgent bowling attack, England proved they can handle the pressure of Australian conditions. If they can secure a win at the SCG, they will head home with a 3-2 series scoreline—a result that would feel like a moral victory after being 3-0 down.
Pitch Report: A Greener Shade of Sydney?
Traditionally a spin-bowler’s paradise, the SCG pitch has shown a surprising green tinge in the days leading up to the match. While curator Adam Lewis may still shave the grass before Sunday morning, the surface is expected to offer plenty for the seamers early on.
Australia’s rookie spinner Todd Murphy remains on standby, but if the green deck persists, Australia may favor the relentless pace of Scott Boland or the all-round capabilities of Beau Webster.
The “Pink Test” Tradition
Beyond the boundary ropes, the SCG will once again turn into a sea of pink for Day 3 (Jane McGrath Day). This iconic tradition supports the McGrath Foundation, raising funds for breast cancer nurses. It remains one of the most powerful sights in world sport, reminding fans that some things are bigger than the game.
