Ashes 2026: Australia Seal Series 4–1 with 5 wkt win at Sydney as England’s ‘Bazball’ Era looks grim

 

England’s nightmare Ashes campaign began with three defeats crammed into just 11 days. A slightly unexpected victory in the fourth Test briefly revived hopes, but the fifth Test brought them crashing back to reality. Ben Stokes’ side went down by five wickets, a defeat that may well mark the end of England’s much-hyped ‘Bazball’ era.

Starting the fifth morning of the Test, England were 302 for 8 in their second innings, holding a slender lead of 119 runs. English supporters clung to hopes of a miracle—either to save the Test or snatch an improbable win. That miracle largely depended on Jacob Bethell, who had finished the fourth day unbeaten on 142. But there was only so much one man could do. Bethell fell early on the fifth morning for a valiant 154, and England were soon bowled out for 342.

Australia were left with a modest target of 161. They chased it down with clinical ease, taking just 31 overs and 2 balls, effectively turning the tables by playing a brand of aggressive cricket reminiscent of England’s own Bazball philosophy. Travis Head (29), Jake Weatherald (34) started the chase well scoring at a fast rate before Head mistimed a pull & Weatherald top edged a needless ramp shot.  Marnus Labuschagne (37) was batting flently but Smith (12) was bowled by a beauty from offie Jacks that spun & went through the gate. Khawaja (6) chopped on off Tongue in his final test and went out to a great ovation . Marnus & Carey were going well till Marcus panicked unneccessarily & got run out giving England outside chance of a miracle. However Carey (16*) & Green(22*) played sparkling shots to seal the 5 wicket win without further damage . 

Earlier in the match, England had squandered a promising position in the first innings. Despite Joe Root scoring a landmark century, the rest of the batting line-up collapsed tamely, and England were bowled out for 384. Australia responded emphatically, piling up a massive 567. Travis Head was the standout with a commanding 163, while Steve Smith also struck a fine century, firmly putting the hosts in control.

England did show some fight in the second innings, but it was never enough. The top order’s repeated failures made the eventual outcome all but inevitable by the end of the fourth day. The defeat merely confirmed what had already become apparent—England were outplayed in all key departments.

Losing the Ashes 4–1 could have far-reaching consequences for English cricket. According to sources, head coach Brendon McCullum has been told that the team’s lack of preparation for the Ashes was evident, and that responsibility rests with him. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is reportedly unhappy not only with the team’s performances but also with the style of play and even the dressing-room atmosphere. There are murmurs that confidence in McCullum is waning among sections of the squad. If the situation does not improve swiftly, action may follow—and there is growing speculation that the former New Zealand star could choose to step down himself in the aftermath of this chastening Ashes series.