Overview
- England named a 12-player group for the fifth Test that includes off-spinner Shoaib Bashir and seamer Matthew Potts, with Gus Atkinson ruled out after hamstring scans.
- Potts is viewed as the likely addition to the XI for his first Ashes appearance, with England to confirm the final team after assessing conditions.
- SCG chief curator Adam Lewis said the surface will retain a day-one green tinge to provide carry on an even pitch, a response to scrutiny after the MCG received an ICC ‘unsatisfactory’ rating for a two-day Test.
- Australia lead the series 3-1 and have already retained the urn, and veteran opener Usman Khawaja has confirmed this SCG match will be his last for Australia.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hosted both teams at Kirribilli House and highlighted the importance of reaching Jane McGrath Day at the SCG.