England’s poor Ashes tour ended with a five-wicket loss to Australia in the fifth Test, sealing a 4–1 series win for the hosts.

Australia comfortably chased a target of 160 runs after lunch on the final day at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Despite injuries, including the absence of captain Pat Cummins, Australia were dominant throughout the series.

This victory gave Australia their fourth straight Ashes series win at home and extended their hold on the urn, which they have kept since 2018.

For England, it was one of their worst Ashes tours in recent years. Hopes of competing were destroyed early after a shocking collapse in the first Test in Perth, which they lost inside two days.

England struggled with poor preparation, injuries to key players, loss of form, and criticism over off-field issues. They lost the first three Tests, handing Australia the series very early.

The only bright moment came in the fourth Test in Melbourne, where England won on a lively pitch for their first Test victory in Australia since 2011. However, that win did little to change the overall picture.

Young players Jacob Bethell, who scored his maiden Test century, and bowler Josh Tongue showed promise for the future. Still, England were clearly outplayed, and the 4–1 scoreline may even flatter them.

Once again, England leave Australia with big questions to answer.