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Australia seals series with five-wicket win in final Test
Australia chased down 160 runs on the fifth day at Sydney Cricket Ground to complete a 4-1 Ashes series triumph, extending their unbeaten home streak since 2018.
England's tour marred by injuries and poor form
England's campaign ended in disappointment, with the team failing to recover from an early collapse in Perth. Injuries to key players, including captain Pat Cummins and pace bowler Mark Wood, compounded their struggles.
Ben Stokes' side managed only one victory-an anomalous two-day win in Melbourne-while suffering defeats in the first three Tests. The tour marked England's fourth consecutive Ashes loss in Australia this century.
Key moments and controversies
England's hopes rested on Jacob Bethell's debut century (154), but his dismissal to Mitchell Starc early on day five shifted momentum. Australia's chase was briefly disrupted by a contentious Snicko decision, sparing Jake Weatherald and sparking frustration among England players.
Usman Khawaja, playing his final Test, received a guard of honour but fell for six. Marnus Labuschagne's run-out (37) and a near-miss run-out involving Alex Carey added to the drama before Carey hit the winning runs.
England's systemic failures under scrutiny
Head coach Brendon McCullum and director of cricket Rob Key face pressure to justify their roles after admitting tour shortcomings. England's preparation, squad selection, and off-field conduct-including a controversial Noosa holiday-drew criticism.
Joe Root's lone century (160) and Josh Tongue's promising performances stood out amid broader struggles. Stokes, recovering from a groin injury, vowed to continue as captain but acknowledged fitness as a hurdle.
Australia's depth exposes England's weaknesses
Despite missing Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon for most of the series, Australia dominated with a second-string attack. Starc's 31 wickets and Travis Head's opening promotion proved decisive.
Australia now turns to the 2027 Ashes in England, seeking their first away series win since 2001. Questions linger over their batting lineup and spin options.
What's next
England shifts focus to the T20 World Cup and a white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, beginning in two weeks. McCullum and Key must demonstrate improvements to retain their positions.
