AUS vs ENG Playing 11 5th Test, The Ashes 2025-26: Key Changes and Replacements

The Ashes 2025-26 is coming to an end with the fifth Test scheduled on January 4, 2026, at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney. Australia's terrific performance throughout the series has been a treat to watch. The hosts are leading the series 3-1 after four Tests.

England did manage to win the fourth Test and saved themselves from an embarrassment of getting whitewashed in the Ashes yet again. It has been noted that England's performance in the Ashes, particularly in Australia, has been disappointing for a very long time. While this year too they have lost the series, but they still have a chance to make it 3-2.

Australia vs England in The Ashes 2025-26

Australia's skipper Steve Smith has led the team really well throughout the series, making sure that the players give their best. The home team have a chance to win the last game and make it, 4-1. They are in great form and since it's their home ground, they know the conditions better.

Apart from that, the English team can expect a balanced pitch in the upcoming game after ICC handed one demerit point to MCG for ‘unsatisfactory’ pitch conditions in the fourth Test match.

AUS vs ENG Playing 11 for 5th Test

Neither of the teams have announced their playing XI so far. But England have announced their playing 12, where Ben Stokes is set to lead the team. Spinner Shoaib Bashir and seamer Matthew Potts are included in the playing 12 for this match, while Gus Atkinson misses out due to a hamstring injury. If we look at the England playing 11 for 5th Test against Australia, one out of Bashir and Potts might be included.

While the Australia playing 11 for 5th Test hasn't been announced, it is confirmed that Cameron Green might miss out due to his inconsistent performance in the four Tests. Meanwhile, Beau Webster might take his place.. He is likely to make his Ashes debut in the AUS vs ENG Sydney Test. Here is the probable AUS vs ENG Playing 11 for 5th Test:

Key Players to Watch Out For in AUS vs ENG 5th Ashes Test 2025-26

Australia and England share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket. Travis Head is certainly the player to watch out for in the final game because of his outstanding form. He has slammed centuries with excellent form, making the game fun and entertaining for the audience with his attacking gameplay.

Next player to watch out for will be Mitchell Starc. He has taken wickets at regular intervals and is also the highest wicket-taker of this series. He has moved to the second position in the ICC Test rankings for bowlers.

For England, all eyes will be on Joe Root, one of the best Test batsmen of all time. He started the series with a century but somehow hasn't been able to keep up with his form. The audience should look forward to witnessing Matthew Potts in the Ashes 2025-26. He is a brilliant player and is likely to play in the last Test match.