The iconic Ashes series reaches its grand finale as Australia and England lock horns in the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. With the urn already secured by the hosts, the focus shifts to pride and momentum as both teams prepare for a final showdown starting January 4 at 5:00 AM IST.
Series Context and Team Strategies
Australia enters the Sydney Test having already retained the Ashes, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series. However, the momentum saw a significant shift in the previous match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). England broke a 15-year drought by winning a Test on Australian soil, securing a four-wicket victory in the fourth match.
This win has injected fresh energy into Ben Stokes's side, who will now aim to build on that success and finish the series with a respectable 3-2 scoreline. For Pat Cummins's Australia, the goal is to reassert dominance on home turf and prevent England from gaining further confidence.
Interestingly, both teams have opted against announcing their starting elevens early, a departure from their approach in the earlier Tests. This caution likely stems from the unpredictable nature of the pitches in this series, most notably the Melbourne surface that saw the third Test conclude in just two days.
How and Where to Watch Live
For cricket fans in India eager to catch the final chapter of this historic rivalry, the broadcast and streaming details are straightforward. The live television coverage will be available on the Star Sports Network.
For those preferring to stream the action on their digital devices, the match will be live-streamed online on the JioHotstar platform. This ensures viewers can follow every ball, whether at home or on the go.
Match Venue and Squad Details
The traditional New Year's Test will be played at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney. The match is scheduled to begin at 5:00 AM Indian Standard Time (IST) on January 4.
The squads for the final encounter feature the key players from both sides. Australia's squad includes captain Steven Smith, stalwarts like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, and a potent bowling attack featuring Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland.
England, led by the inspirational Ben Stokes, will rely on the batting prowess of Joe Root and Harry Brook, while their bowling unit will look to exploit any assistance from the SCG pitch.
As the curtains fall on another Ashes series, this final Test promises not just a contest for the match, but a battle for psychological advantage. England will fight to prove their MCG win was no fluke, while Australia will be determined to end their home summer on a high note in front of their fans.
