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Australia v England 5th Test – 2025-26 Ashes Series

January 4, 2026 – January 8, 2026 AEDT

audience on a stadium during dusk

The Ashes series culminates with the 5th and final Test, traditionally the highly anticipated New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This match often serves as the series decider or a chance for one team to salvage pride, making it a fitting and dramatic conclusion to one of cricket’s greatest rivalries. Sydney’s vibrant atmosphere and iconic setting provide a spectacular backdrop for this grand finale.

This guide provides essential information for fans planning to attend the 5th Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series, including dates, venue details, ticketing, and travel/accommodation.

When is the 5th Test of the 2025-26 Ashes Series?

The 5th Test of the 2025-26 NRMA Insurance Men’s Ashes Series between Australia and England is scheduled from Sunday, January 4, 2026, to Thursday, January 8, 2026.

Where is the 5th Test of the 2025-26 Ashes Series?

The 5th Test will be held at:

About the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)

The SCG is one of the world’s most famous cricketing venues, steeped in tradition and history, having hosted international matches since the late 19th century. While its capacity of around 46,000 is smaller than the MCG, it offers an intimate atmosphere with excellent views of the pitch, making fans feel right on top of the action. The SCG is renowned for its vibrant crowd and often produces memorable contests. It’s nestled within Moore Park, just a few kilometres southeast of Downtown Sydney.

Sydney Cricket Ground (Sydney)

How do I get tickets to the 5th Test?

Tickets for the New Year’s Ashes Test at the SCG are always in high demand.

  • Ticketek: The primary source for official tickets for events at the SCG. You can find information and purchase tickets for international cricket, including the Ashes, here.
    • You can also specifically look for SCG events on Ticketek here.
  • Australian Cricket Family (ACF): Fans are strongly encouraged to register with the Australian Cricket Family for priority access to tickets, which is particularly beneficial for high-demand matches like the New Year’s Test.
  • Official Travel Packages: Various officially licensed travel operators (e.g., International Cricket Tours, Spectate, Freedom Destinations, Barmy Army Travel) offer Ashes tour packages that include guaranteed match tickets, accommodation, and sometimes international flights and other experiences (such as New Year’s Eve celebrations in Sydney). These packages are often the most reliable way to secure tickets for this popular event.
  • Availability: Tickets for the 5th Test are listed on Ticketek. It is highly advisable to secure your tickets as early as possible to avoid disappointment, as they are expected to sell out quickly.

How do I travel to Sydney?

Sydney is Australia’s largest city and a major international hub with excellent transport options.

  • By Air:
    • Sydney Airport (SYD): Serves numerous domestic and international flights. It is well-connected to the city center by the Airport Link train service, buses, taxis, and ride-share options.
  • To the SCG:
    • Public Transport (Highly Recommended): The SCG is easily accessible by Sydney’s public transport network.
      • Light Rail: The L2 Randwick Line and L3 Kingsford Line offer direct routes to the SCG. If you’re staying in downtown Sydney (Circular Quay, Central Station, Town Hall), you can catch the light rail to the Moore Park stop, which is a 5-10 minute walk to the stadium.
      • Bus: Numerous bus routes service the SCG area, with stops along Anzac Parade or Oxford Street. Key routes from Circular Quay or Central Station stop near the stadium.
      • Train: While there is no direct train station at the SCG, you can take a train to Central Station and then transfer to a light rail or bus service.
    • Walking: Walking to the SCG from downtown hotels can be a pleasant option, typically taking 40-50 minutes via Foveaux Street or Oxford Street.
    • Driving/Parking: Driving to the SCG is not recommended on match days due to scarce parking and heavy traffic.

Where to Stay During the 5th Test in Sydney?

Sydney offers a diverse range of accommodation options, but booking well in advance is crucial due to the New Year period and the Ashes Test.

  • Sydney CBD (Central Business District): Offers the widest selection of hotels, from luxury to budget, with excellent access to public transport, dining, shopping, and major attractions like Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. It’s a short light rail or bus ride to the SCG.
  • Surry Hills/Darlinghurst: These vibrant inner-city suburbs are closer to the SCG, offering boutique hotels, guesthouses, and a lively dining scene. They provide good walking or short public transport access to the stadium.
  • Potts Point/Woolloomooloo: Upscale areas with a mix of hotels and apartments, offering good access to the city and SCG.
  • Bondi Junction: A major transport hub with many accommodation options, offering good connections to the SCG via bus or light rail, and close to the famous Bondi Beach.

Booking Tips:

  • Book Extremely Early: The period around New Year’s and the Ashes Test is peak season in Sydney. Accommodation will be scarce and significantly more expensive if not booked many months in advance.
  • Consider Location & Transport: Prioritize hotels with easy access to light rail or bus routes to the SCG.
  • Use Reputable Booking Sites: Utilise well-known platforms like Tripadvisor to find and compare options.
  • Review Cancellation Policies: Given the long lead time, ensure you understand the cancellation policies of any bookings.
TripAdvisor

Helpful Links for Planning Your 5th Test Experience

Get ready for the grand finale of the Ashes series at the iconic SCG!

Sydney Cricket Ground

Sydney, Australia

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