Steve Smith Discusses Team Selection Ahead of Final Ashes Test at SCG

As Australia gears up for the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, stand-in captain Steve Smith reveals that the team has yet to finalize its playing XI. With Australia leading the series 3-1, Smith emphasizes the importance of assessing the pitch conditions before making decisions on team composition. Following a disappointing loss in the fourth Test, the team is eager to secure a 4-1 series victory. Smith's insights into potential strategies and player combinations highlight the team's focus on bouncing back and achieving success in the Test Championship cycle.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 3, 2026, 10:06 IST

Final Preparations for the Last Ashes Test

Steve Smith, the stand-in captain for Australia's Test team, has indicated that the final lineup for the last Ashes Test, scheduled to take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) starting January 4, has not yet been determined. Australia enters this match with a commanding 3-1 lead in the series after reclaiming the Ashes.

In contrast, England, led by Ben Stokes, has included spinner Shoaib Bashir in their 12-member squad for the SCG Test following their victory in the fourth match. Smith mentioned that Australia will finalize their playing XI after evaluating the pitch conditions at Sydney, stating that 'all options are on the table currently.'

'All Options Are on the Table'

During a pre-match press conference on Saturday, Smith remarked, 'I haven't had the opportunity to inspect the wicket this morning, so all options remain open. It hasn't received much sunlight, so we need to assess it further. It appeared quite green yesterday, so we will take another look.'

He emphasized that the team's selection will hinge on the pitch's condition, with Australia contemplating various combinations, including different all-rounders and spin options. 'We might include a couple of all-rounders or a spinner, or even opt for no spinner at all. We'll decide once we evaluate the surface and determine our strategy,' Smith explained.

'No one is confirmed yet. As I mentioned earlier, we haven't finalized the team. There are 13 or 14 players in consideration, and we want to see how we match up against that,' he added.

Looking to Bounce Back After MCG Defeat

Australia suffered a four-wicket defeat to England in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Reflecting on this setback, Smith stated, 'It was disappointing to lose last week. We were outperformed in the latter stages of that match. Our goal now is to turn things around, secure a 4-1 series victory, and more importantly, win a Test in the Test Championship cycle.'