The Ashes series is already decided, but the fifth Test at the SCG is still delivering plenty of drama! From early wickets to heated debates, let's dive into the key moments and talking points.
Early Wickets and Australia's Dominance
- WICKET! Mitchell Starc strikes early, dismissing Crawley.
- WICKET: Boland departs for a golden duck, adding to Australia's total of 567.
- WICKET: Starc is out for just 5 runs.
- WICKET: Steve Smith is dismissed after scoring 138 runs.
A Look at the Player of the Series
With the series outcome sealed, the focus shifts to individual performances. The question on everyone's mind: Who deserves the Player of the Series award? Mitchell Starc and Travis Head are the frontrunners, but Alex Carey's performance, particularly in Adelaide, is also being recognized. Joe Root's impressive centuries are unfortunately overshadowed by his team's struggles.
- Arguments for Starc: He has taken a remarkable 28 wickets, especially considering the absence of key players like Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. His performance is reminiscent of Mitch Johnson's in the 2013-14 series.
- Arguments for Head: He has scored his third century of the series and accumulated over 600 runs, the most since Steve Smith's 774 in 2019.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: Who do you think deserves the Player of the Series title? Let me know in the comments below!
Match Highlights and Key Moments
- A Near Miss: Michael Neser's impressive bowling almost secured a wicket, but Cameron Green dropped a crucial catch, giving England a lifeline. This missed opportunity could prove costly.
- England's Response: England is trailing by 103 runs but has shown resilience, with Duckett and Bethell at the crease.
- Concussion Test: Play was briefly paused for a concussion test after Green's delivery hit Bethell's helmet. Thankfully, he was cleared to continue.
- Day Five Prospects: There's speculation about whether the game will extend to a fifth day.
England's Struggles and a Statistical Low
England's opening partnership average in this series is notably low, which is concerning. It's the second-lowest in Test series history (minimum 10 innings), with only the 1981 Ashes series having a lower average.
- Lowest Opening Partnership Average in a Test Series (minimum 10 innings):
- 18.6 - John Dyson & Graeme Wood (AUS), Ashes 1981 (away)
- 19.1 - Zak Crawley & Ben Duckett (ENG), Ashes 2025/26 (away)
- 21.4 - Sunil Gavaskar & Anshuman Gaikwad (IND) vs WI, 1983/84 (home)
- 23.44 - Trevor Goddard & Jackie McGlew (SA) vs ENG, 1960 (away)
- 23.7 - Michael Atherton & Marcus Trescothick (ENG), Ashes 2001 (home)
Off-Field Drama: Cricket Australia vs. ABC
But here's where it gets controversial... A mid-Test feud between Cricket Australia and the ABC arose due to comments made by former player Stuart Clark during commentary. This led to the managing director of the national broadcaster intervening to resolve the issue. As a result, ABC Radio was granted a post-play interview with an Australian cricketer.
England 1-34 (Duckett 17, Bethell 12), trail by 149 runs
Final Thoughts: The fifth Test at the SCG is full of twists and turns. From Starc's early impact to the ongoing debate over the Player of the Series, there's plenty to keep cricket fans engaged. What are your thoughts on the game so far? Share your opinions in the comments!
