termination of The Ashes 2025-26 The series is shifting to the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) for the traditional New Year Test starting on January 4, 2026. Following EnglandA thrilling four-wicket win at the MCG, their first Test win. Australia Since 2011, visitors have been arriving at Sydney at an increasing pace. However, they will have to contend with a Sydney summer forecast that threatens to disrupt the early stages of the match before giving way to classic ‘Pink Test’ sunshine.
Ashes 2025-26: Both sides face further injuries
Australia’s depth continues to be tested as they head to the SCG without their captain pat cummins and experienced spinner nathan lyonBoth were ruled out of the remainder of the series after the Adelaide Test. steve smith Retains captaincy for series finale, leads viewing team todd murphy And jay richardson Integrated into setup. However, the biggest story for the hosts is their emotional farewell Usman KhawajaWho has confirmed that he will retire from international cricket after this test.
Despite the win in Melbourne, England’s injury crisis has deepened. fast bowler Gus Atkinson Has been ruled out of the SCG Test after suffering a hamstring injury during the Boxing Day clash. he joins jofra archer And mark wood on the edge, going ben stokes With a dead Pace battery. In response, England have announced a 12-man squad including the off-spinner Shoaib Bashir and seamer Matthew PottsBashir is potentially making his first appearance in the series on a surface traditionally suited for slow bowlers.
Also read: Usman Khawaja announces retirement from international cricket, SCG test will be his last test
Sydney weather forecast for the 5th Ashes 2025-26 Test of the New Year
day 1: Opening day is expected to start intermittently on Sunday, January 4. Strong thunderstorms and intermittent rain are expected, with a 55% chance of rain throughout the day. Temperatures will reach 27 degrees Celsius, and high humidity levels may aid swing bowlers during the game. Both teams will have to be mentally sharp to deal with frequent setbacks.
Day 2: Monday, January 5 Conditions remain unsettled as wet weather continues. While the risk of complete washouts has diminished, skies will remain mostly cloudy with a 20% chance of rain. The moisture in the air and moderate southerly breeze will keep the seamers interested, making the morning session a crucial time for the top-order batsmen.
Day 3: The clouds are expected to clear for the annual Pink Test ceremony on Tuesday, January 6, although there is still a 20% chance of rain. Mostly sunny skies and a pleasant temperature of 26°C are expected. As the sun sets on SCG Square, the pitch will begin to dry out and harden, giving stroke-makers the opportunity to take advantage of the improving conditions. This is often the best day to bat in Sydney.
Day 4: Wednesday, 7 January Heat becomes a factor on the final day as the temperature climbs to 28°C in bright sunshine. With no rain expected, the SCG surface is likely to see a lot of wear and tear. This exciting day will see the spinners take center stage as they look to take advantage of the trouble created by the fast bowlers’ follow-through.
Day 5: With a high of 31°C and clear skies forecast for Thursday, January 8, this test is going to be a very tough finale. If the match enters the final day, it will be a fierce battle of patience. Dry, parched conditions will favor the team with disciplined spinners and batsmen who can maintain focus in the intense Sydney heat.
Also read: Ashes 2025-26: England unveil squad for SCG Test, Shoaib Bashir returns
