The Ashes urn may be secured, but pride and a series victory remain firmly on the line as Australia and England prepare for the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. With the series already decided, the focus has shifted to team selection and a pitch under intense scrutiny.
Australia's Bold Selection Gamble
In a major tactical move, Australia has opted for a fourth specialist pace attack in six Tests, leaving out spinner Todd Murphy. The call was confirmed on the morning of the match, with allrounder Beau Webster coming into the side for Jhye Richardson.
This marks the third time in four matches Australia has entered a Test without a frontline spinner, a significant gamble on the traditionally spin-friendly SCG wicket. On Sunday, both Webster and fellow allrounder Cameron Green were seen marking out their run-ups in the nets, signalling the team's intended direction.
Smith's Defence of Under-Fire Green
Stand-in captain Steve Smith launched a strong defence of out-of-form allrounder Cameron Green in the lead-up to the Test, though he stopped short of guaranteeing his spot. Smith stated that all selection options were considered, including playing both Green and Webster.
"We'll figure (the team) out once we see the surface and see which way we want to go about it," Smith said on Saturday morning. His comments highlighted the fluid situation before the final XI was locked in.
SCG Pitch Under the Microscope
The SCG pitch has become a central talking point, with unprecedented scrutiny on curator David Sandurski's preparation. Reports indicate the surface has 2mm less grass than the deck used for the corresponding Test last year, along with less density beneath the surface, which could lead to a flatter batting track.
This analysis comes after England managed to salvage some pride with a victory in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, breaking a long drought. Australia, however, is determined to finish the series on a high and send the tourists home with a defeat.
The fifth Test is scheduled to begin at 10:30am AEDT at the SCG, with thousands of fans already flooding through the gates. The match will be broadcast live and free across Australia on the Seven Network and 7plus Sport, with coverage starting from 9:30am AEDT.
