Ashes 2025-26: Shoaib Bashir returns, England announces squad for SCG Test. Read

England by Australia against The Ashes 2025-26 The 12-member squad has been announced for the fifth and final Test, which will be played at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 4 to 8. With the Ashes already decided in record time, England will be looking to end the tour on a positive note after taking inspiration from their morale-boosting Melbourne win.

After a difficult campaign that saw them lose the trophy in just 11 days, England finally tasted success on Australian soil in the fourth Test in Melbourne. ben stokes England recorded a stunning four-wicket win in a dramatic two-day encounter, ending Australia’s winless series of more than 5,000 days.

Shoaib Bashir returns to strengthen spin options

The biggest message from the team announcement is the young off-spinner Shoaib Bashir England have recalled him with the aim of strengthening their spin resources for the SCG Test. The Sydney pitch, traditionally known to provide more support to spinners than other Australian venues, is expected to play a key role in England’s team combination.

Bashir’s selection reflects England’s intention to challenge Australia with spin, especially as the match days progress. The management believes that his control ability and ability to extract turn can be crucial against Australia’s middle order.

Matthew Potts selected, Gus Atkinson out

With Bashir, the fast bowler Matthew Potts Has also been included in the squad for the final Test of the series. Potts’ ability to maintain discipline and extract seam movement could provide valuable depth to England’s bowling attack.

However, England Gus Atkinson Will miss the services of , who has been ruled out of the final Test in Melbourne due to a hamstring injury. Atkinson was the only absent player from the winning team in the Fourth Test, making his absence a significant blow.

Although England can no longer reclaim the Ashes, the SCG Test presents an opportunity to restore pride and confidence. A win in Sydney will not only help England end the tour with two wins but will also provide a psychological boost for future overseas campaigns.

main batsman like Joe Root And harry brook will be at the center of England’s hopes, while will jacks Like all-round options add balance to the team.

England team for the fifth Ashes test

Ben Stokes (wk), Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bettall, Harry Brook, Bryden Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckitt, Will Jaques, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tong.

Also read: England announced playing XI for the fourth test against India, Liam Dawson replaced injured Shoaib Bashir.

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