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4 Jan 2025
In a gripping start to the fifth and final Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), England’s Joe Root and Harry Brook delivered masterful unbeaten knocks of 72 and 78 respectively, propelling their team to 211/3 before bad light and rain forced an early stumps on Day 1.
With Australia already retaining the Ashes after a dominant 3-0 lead earlier in the series, this match—happening right now on January 4, 2026—offers England a chance for pride and momentum heading into future campaigns.
As cricket fans worldwide tune in, here’s everything you need to know about the ongoing clash, the teams, schedules, location, and how to snag tickets for the remaining days.
The Match in Action: Who’s Playing and What’s Happening Now
The showdown pits Australia against England in the prestigious Ashes series, a historic rivalry dating back to 1882.
Australia, captained by Pat Cummins, boasts a formidable lineup including Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, and bowlers like Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. England, led by Ben Stokes, features stars like Joe Root, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, and pace spearheads James Anderson (if fit) and Mark Wood.On Day 1 (January 4, 2026), England won the toss and elected to bat first on a pitch offering early movement.
Early wickets fell—Ben Duckett (28), Zak Crawley (24), and Ollie Pope (29)—leaving them at 57/3. But Root and Brook’s unbroken 154-run partnership turned the tide, frustrating the Aussie attack with elegant strokeplay and resilience.
Play was halted after just 45 overs due to deteriorating light and intermittent rain, with the duo set to resume tomorrow. Australia trails 1-3 in the series but has already secured the urn; a win here would make it 4-1, while England aims to avoid a whitewash.Live updates are buzzing on social media, with fans praising Root’s classic technique and Brook’s aggressive flair. As one post noted, “Rain and bad light forced an early stumps… England will be the happier side.”
The Location: Sydney Cricket Ground
The action unfolds at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in Sydney, Australia—a venue steeped in Ashes lore, known for its spin-friendly pitches and passionate crowds.
With a capacity of over 48,000, the SCG’s atmosphere is electric, especially during the traditional New Year’s Test (shifted slightly this year).
Weather plays a role, as seen today with gloom and showers, but forecasts suggest clearer skies for Days 2-5.
Full Ashes 2025-26 Series Schedule and Results So Far
The five-Test series kicked off in November 2025, with Australia dominating early to retain the Ashes.
Here’s the complete rundown:
| Test | Dates | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | November 21-25, 2025 | Perth Stadium, Perth | Australia won |
| 2nd Test (Day-Night) | December 4-8, 2025 | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide | Australia won |
| 3rd Test | December 17-21, 2025 | The Gabba, Brisbane | Australia won by 82 runs |
| 4th Test | December 26-30, 2025 | Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne | Australia won |
| 5th Test (Ongoing) | January 4-8, 2026 | Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney | Day 1: England 211/3 |
Australia leads 4-0, having retained the Ashes after the third Test. All matches start at 10:30 AM local time (AEDT), with UK viewers catching it from 11:30 PM GMT the previous day.
Upcoming Match Schedule: What’s Next in This Test
With the series decided, the focus is on this final Test’s remaining days:
- Day 2: January 5, 2026, 10:30 AM AEDT – England resumes batting; expect Australia to fight back with the new ball.
- Day 3: January 6, 2026, 10:30 AM AEDT – Potential for spin to dominate.
- Day 4: January 7, 2026, 10:30 AM AEDT.
- Day 5: January 8, 2026, 10:30 AM AEDT (if needed).
No further Tests in this series, but England’s next international fixtures include tours later in 2026.
Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets for the remaining days are still available, though selling fast due to the high-stakes rivalry. Official sales are through Cricket Australia’s website, with prices starting from AUD $30 for adults (concessions lower).
Premium seats in pavilions can go up to AUD $200+ per day.
- Day 2 (Jan 5): Available, expect family zones and general admission.
- Day 3-5: Limited stock; book early for the potential finale.
Resale options include trusted platforms, but verify authenticity to avoid scams. SCG members get priority.As the Ashes wrap up, this Test exemplifies cricket’s unpredictability—weather woes, heroic partnerships, and enduring rivalries. Will Root and Brook extend their dominance, or will Cummins’ men roar back? Stay tuned!
#Ashes2026 #AUSvENG #Cricket #JoeRoot #HarryBrook #SCGTest
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