Australia concluded a dominant Ashes tour of England with a commanding five-wicket victory in the fifth and final Test at The Oval in London. The win on Monday sealed the five-match series 4-1 in their favour, underlining their supremacy in one of cricket's oldest and most storied rivalries.
A Chase Mastered on Final Day
Set a target of 249 runs to win, the Australian batting lineup, led by a composed partnership between Steven Smith (40) and the series' leading run-scorer Usman Khawaja (72), navigated the chase with relative ease. While England's bowlers, particularly Chris Woakes (4-50), struck some late blows, the visitors crossed the finish line comfortably. The winning runs were fittingly hit by captain Pat Cummins, who remained unbeaten on 9, alongside all-rounder Mitchell Marsh (31*).
The foundation for this victory was laid earlier in the match. After England won the toss and chose to bat, they were bowled out for 283 in their first innings. Australia, in reply, posted a formidable 295, securing a slender but crucial lead of 12 runs.
England's Second Innings Collapse Proves Decisive
The match turned decisively on the fourth day during England's second innings. From a relatively strong position, the home team suffered a dramatic collapse, losing their last seven wickets for a mere 70 runs. They were eventually dismissed for 236, setting Australia the manageable target. Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc was the chief destroyer, claiming 4 wickets for 51 runs, effectively breaking the back of the English batting order.
This late-order slump meant England's first-innings centurion, Harry Brook (85), and opener Ben Duckett (42) saw their good work undone. For Australia, the bowling effort was a collective one, with crucial contributions coming from all corners.
Series Recap and Looking Ahead
The 4-1 scoreline accurately reflects Australia's dominance throughout the series, despite England's spirited 'Bazball' approach. Australia had already retained the Ashes urn after the fourth Test in Manchester ended in a draw, but this final win emphatically stamped their authority.
Pat Cummins lifted the prestigious urn on English soil, a significant achievement for the visiting side. The series will be remembered for individual brilliance, tactical battles, and Australia's ability to seize key moments. The focus for both teams now shifts to the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India, where they will enter as two of the top favourites.
This comprehensive series victory reinforces Australia's status as a powerhouse in Test cricket and sets the stage for the next chapter in this historic rivalry when England travels Down Under for the next Ashes contest.
