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). While Australia have already retained the urn with a 3-1 lead, the final Test carries enormous weight as England chase a 3-2 ‘respectable’ finish after their stunning two-day win at the MCG, and the Australian cricket public prepares to bid farewell to the legendary opener Usman Khawajawho has announced that this will be his last Test match.

England arrives in Sydney with renewed faith. Their four-wicket win in Melbourne – their first Test victory on Australian soil in 15 years – proved that ‘Bazball’ can pierce Australian 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 peace Pat Cumminstries to restore order. Despite losing in Melbourne, the hosts dominated the series, winning in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide. The biggest story for the Baggy Greens is Khawaja sending off with a win on his home ground, where he famously scored two centuries against England in 2022.

Team combinations

Australia have a selection headache in the all-rounder department. Cameron Green is under pressure after a poor run, with Beau Webster waiting in the wings. Todd Murphy It is almost certain that he will return to the side to provide a front-line spin option. England have named a twelve-man squad. Guus Atkinson is out with a hamstring injury, which means Matthew Potts the likely replacement. The last place is a toss-up between the aggression of Will Jacks and the specialist twist of Shoaib Bashir.

Pitch report of the 5th test

Curator Adam Lewis has prepared a lawn with approximately 6mm of grass (lower than Melbourne’s 10mm). Although it currently appears green due to a lack of recent sunlight, it is expected to bake under the sun and turn into a traditional Sydney ‘straw’ colour. Traditionally Australia’s friendliest spin venue, the SCG has recently favored pace. However, both teams have included specialist spinners in their squads, expecting the surface to dry out and provide an inning on Day 3.

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

Test statistics and records at Sydney Cricket Ground

• Total number of matches: 115
• Matches won first: 47
• Matches won first in bowling: 44
• Average score in the first innings: 316
• Average score in the second innings: 310
• Average score in the 3rd innings: 248
• Average score in the 4th innings: 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 chased: 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 unveil squad for SCG Test