Sydney, Jan 08 (V7N) — Australia defeated England by five wickets in the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday, taking control of the series 4–1. England managed to win only one Test in the series, a four-wicket victory in Melbourne.

Travis Head was named Player of the Match for his crucial contributions of 163 and 29 runs in two innings. Mitchell Starc earned the Player of the Series award, finishing with 31 wickets across five Tests.

On the final day, England resumed at 302 for 8 and were all out for 342 runs in 88.2 overs. Ben Bethel, who had remained unbeaten on 142 the previous day, added 12 more runs to end with a brilliant 154 off 265 balls with 15 fours, before being caught by Alex Carey off Starc’s bowling. Beau Webster and Starc each took three wickets for Australia.

Australia, set a modest target of 160 runs to win, began their innings with Travis Head, who partnered with Jack Weatherald to add 62 runs. Head, who had scored a century in the first innings, was dismissed for 29 off 35 balls. Weatherald contributed 34 runs off 40 balls before being caught by Tang off Potts.

Captain Steve Smith, who had scored a century in Australia’s first innings, was bowled out for 12 by Will Jacks in the final innings. Usman Khawaja, playing his farewell Test, scored 6 runs. Marnus Labuschagne showcased his usual flair, scoring 37 off 40 balls before being run out.

Australia lost their fifth wicket at 121 runs but ultimately secured victory thanks to Alex Carey (16)* and *Pat Green (22)**, who guided the team across the line.

With this win, Australia wraps up the Ashes series emphatically, marking a dominant performance over England throughout the five-match contest.

END/SMA/AJ