SYDNEY – Australia has completed a dominant summer of cricket, defeating England by five wickets in the fifth and final Ashes Test at the SCG to wrap up a comprehensive 4-1 series victory.
Despite a late fightback from England’s bowlers on Day 5, the target of 160 proved too small to defend. Alex Carey and Cameron Green remained composed in the final session to guide the hosts home, sparking wild celebrations in Sydney. The win also provided a perfect farewell for veteran opener Usman Khawaja, who retires from Test cricket with the urn firmly in Australian hands.+2
Match & Series Breakdown
- The Result: Australia won the 5th Test by 5 wickets.
- Series Score: Australia 4, England 1.
- Key Performer: Mitchell Starc was named Player of the Series for his relentless pace, finishing with 31 wickets.
- The “Bazball” Collapse: While England managed a historic win at the MCG in the Boxing Day Test, they were outplayed in Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, and now Sydney.
Michael Vaughan Rips Into England
Former England captain Michael Vaughan did not hold back in his assessment of the tour. Speaking after the loss, Vaughan described the “Bazball” era as having been “badly exposed” on Australian shores.
“The Aussies are laughing at us,” Vaughan wrote in his column. “England have had a cockiness about them for three years, and the entire cricketing world has wanted to shut them up. This tour has been a humbling experience. You cannot win in Australia with just a gung-ho attitude; you need discipline, and England had neither.”
Vaughan further noted that while the team has talent, the “high-risk, ultra-predictable” style of play under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum failed when it mattered most. He called for an immediate “back to basics” approach before the next World Test Championship cycle.
What’s Next for England?
Captain Ben Stokes admitted the team was “far below the level” required to win in Australia. With the series over, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to conduct a thorough review of the coaching structure and team selection as the side prepares for the home summer.
