Overview
- Australia carry a 3-1 Ashes lead into the fifth Test at the SCG on January 4 after the Boxing Day defeat in Melbourne.
- Jake Weatherald and Marnus Labuschagne are expected to keep their places, while Cameron Green’s spot is in serious doubt after averaging 18.66 this series.
- Travis Head publicly endorsed Weatherald’s retention, noting a tough introduction to Test cricket as the opener sits on 146 runs at 20.85 across eight innings.
- Usman Khawaja’s future remains undecided, with talk of a possible Sydney farewell coming from commentators such as Brett Lee rather than from the player.
- Labuschagne’s difficult year stands at 271 runs at 20.84 from eight Tests, prompting calls for runs in Sydney to secure his role as alternatives like Beau Webster stay on the sidelines.