Australia has announced an unchanged squad of 15 players for the fifth and final Ashes Test against England, starting on January 4, 2026 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). **Steve Smith** remains the captain, while regular captain **Pat Cummins** has been rested for the rest of the series.

Cummins missed the first two Tests with a lower back stress injury, returning for the third Test in Adelaide (where Australia retained the Ashes with a 3–0 lead), but has since been managed carefully to prioritize his fitness for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Despite a four-wicket defeat in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne—England’s first Ashes win on home soil in 15 years, on a pitch the ICC described as “unsatisfactory”—the selectors maintained consistency in the team. Fast bowlers like **Mitchell Starc** and **Scott Boland** will benefit from having matches in less time.

**Usman Khawaja** has retained his place amid retirement speculation, with coach Andrew McDonald confirming his inclusion in the lineup. The 39-year-old player has scored 153 runs in the series at an average of 30.60. **Cameron Green**’s form is still in question, while all-rounder **Beau Webster** has returned to the team after Big Bash duty. If the SCG pitch favors spin bowlers then off-spinner **Todd Murphy** may get a chance, although recent pitches have favored fast bowlers.

**Team**: Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendon Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.

Australia lead 3-1, and will be looking to finish the series on a strong performance with World Test Championship points at stake.

The selectors’ confidence in the team shows confidence, but the dilemma of selection for the playing eleven remains as Australia looks to make a strong comeback to win the series.