AUS vs ENG, Ashes 2025-26: Pitch report for 5th Test, SCG stats and records

The 2025-26 Ashes series reaches its emotional conclusion at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With Australia already retaining the urn with a 3-1 lead, the final Test carries immense weight: England are looking for a “respectable” 3-2 result after their stunning two-day win at the MCG, and the Australian cricket public is preparing to bid farewell to the legendary opening match. Usman Khawajawho announced that this would be his last test match.

England arrive in Sydney with renewed confidence. Their four-wicket victory in Melbourne – their first Test victory on Australian soil in 15 years – proved that the ‘Bazball’ could pierce Australia’s armor in the right conditions. For Ben Stokes, a 3-2 series result would be a major statement of intent for the future of English cricket.

Australia, led by Steve Smith in the absence of the rested Patrick Cumminsseeks to restore order. Despite losing in Melbourne, the hosts dominated the series, winning in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide. The main narrative for the Baggy Greens is to send Khawaja off with a victory on his home turf, where he scored two centuries against England in 2022.

Team combinations

Australia have a selection headache in the versatile department. Cameron Green is under pressure after a lean race, with Beau Webster waiting in the wings. Todd Murphy is almost certain to return to the side to provide a frontline rotation option. England have called up a squad of 12 players. Gus Atkinson is out with a hamstring injury, which makes Matthew Potts the probable replacement. The last spot is a clash between the aggression of Will Jacks and the specialized version of Shoaib Bashir.

5th Test Pitch Report

Curator Adam Lewis prepared a pitch with around 6mm of grass (lower than Melbourne’s 10mm). Although it currently appears green due to a lack of recent sunshine, it is expected to bake in the sun and fade to a traditional Sydney “straw” color. Traditionally Australia’s friendliest spin venue, the SCG has recently shifted its focus to pacing. However, both teams included specialist spinners in their squads, anticipating that the surface would dry out and offer turn by the third day.

ALSO READ: Usman Khawaja announces retirement from international cricket, SCG Test will be his final bow

Test statistics and records at the Sydney Cricket Ground

• Total number of matches: 115
• Games won batting first: 47
• Matches won bowling first: 44
• Average score of the first round: 316
• Average score of the 2nd round: 310
• Average score of the 3rd rounds: 248
• Average score of the 4th rounds: 169
• Highest total recorded: 705/7 (187.3 Ovs) By India vs Australia
• Lowest total recorded: 42/10 (37.3 Ovs) By Australia vs England
• Highest score pursued: 288/2 (60.3 Ovs) By Australia vs South Africa
• Lowest score defended: 97/10 (107 Ovs) By Australia vs England

ALSO READ: Ashes 2025-26: Shoaib Bashir returns as England reveal squad for SCG Test