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 is still deliberating on their final lineup. With Australia leading the series 3-1, Smith emphasizes the importance of assessing the pitch conditions before making decisions on team composition. He discusses the potential inclusion of all-rounders and spinners, highlighting the need for flexibility in their strategy. Following a recent defeat to England, Smith aims to turn the tide and secure a 4-1 series victory. Read on for more insights into Australia's preparations and Smith's reflections on the team's performance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 3, 2026, 09:49 IST

Final Preparations for the Ashes Test

Sydney, Australia - On January 3, Steve Smith, who is stepping in as captain for the Australian Test team, revealed that the final lineup for the last Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is still under consideration. The match is scheduled to commence on January 4.

Australia enters this Test with a commanding 3-1 lead in the series, having already secured the Ashes.

In contrast, England, led by Ben Stokes and fresh off a victory in the fourth Test, has included spinner Shoaib Bashir in their 12-man squad for the SCG clash. Smith indicated that Australia will finalize their playing XI after evaluating the pitch conditions, stating that all options remain viable.

"I haven't had the opportunity to inspect the wicket this morning, so we are keeping all options 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," Smith mentioned during a pre-match press briefing.

He emphasized that the team's selection will hinge on the pitch, with Australia contemplating various combinations, including the possibility of including multiple all-rounders or a spinner.

"We might opt for a couple of all-rounders or a spinner, or even go without a spinner. We'll determine our approach once we analyze the surface," Smith explained.

"No decisions have been finalized yet. As I mentioned earlier, we haven't selected a team. There are 13 or 14 players in contention, and we want to evaluate how we match up against them," he added.

Australia suffered a four-wicket defeat to England in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Reflecting on that loss, Smith expressed disappointment, stating, "It was frustrating to lose last week. We were outperformed in the latter stages of that match. Our goal now is to bounce back, secure a 4-1 series win, and more importantly, achieve a victory in the Test Championship cycle."