Australia seal Ashes series 4-1 with five wicket win in Sydney

Australia wrapped up a dominant Ashes campaign with a five wicket victory over England in the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday, sealing the series 4 1. The hosts chased down a target of 160 runs after bowling England out for 342 on the fifth morning of the match.

While the target appeared manageable, the chase was far from straightforward. England struck regularly to remove early batters and built pressure as Australia slipped to five down, briefly sensing an opening. The drama peaked when a close lbw decision against Alex Carey was reviewed, with the DRS call going in Australia’s favour and deflating England’s hopes. Australia stayed composed thereafter, reaching 161 for five in just over 31 overs. Carey held his nerve to hit the winning runs and remained unbeaten on 16, with Cameron Green providing steady support at the other end on 22 not out.

The match carried emotional significance as well, with veteran opener Usman Khawaja expected to have played his final Test. The 39 year old contributed with the bat in both innings, scoring a composed 34 in Australia’s first innings and adding a steady 18 in the second to help settle the chase. Khawaja signed off on a winning note, receiving warm applause from the home crowd as Australia completed the series triumph in Sydney.

Australia had already retained the Ashes by winning the first three Tests of the series. England managed a spirited comeback with a win in the fourth Test at Melbourne, but the hosts ensured there would be no late twist, closing out the series convincingly in Sydney.

Mitchell Starc was named Player of the Series after a superb bowling effort across the five Tests, finishing as the leading wicket taker with 31 wickets at an average of 21.4 , an economy rate of 2.6 runs per over , and a strike rate of 48 balls per wicket . Travis Head earned the Player of the Match award for his commanding first innings century, a fluent 163 , which laid the foundation for Australia’s control of the contest and proved decisive in setting up the final victory.

Stand-in captain Steve Smith , who led the side in the absence of regular skipper Pat Cummins, praised the team’s collective effort and calm approach under pressure. Smith said the series win reflected Australia’s depth and ability to respond in key moments, especially in challenging situations.

With this result, Australia will hold the Ashes until the next series, which is scheduled to be played in England in 2027. Both teams are expected to begin preparations soon, with England looking to regroup on home soil and Australia setting their sights on performing strongly away from home as they attempt to defend the urn in challenging English conditions.