Australia Finish Ashes in Style Despite Final-Day Nerves – Wins The 5th Test

Australia has held its nerve to clinch a five-wicket victory in the fifth and final Ashes Test at the SCG, sealing a dominant 4-1 series triumph on day five.

Chasing a modest target of 160 after England were bowled out for 342 in their second innings, the hosts made heavy weather of the run chase before Alex Carey (16 not out) and Cameron Green (22 not out) steadied the innings and guided Australia to the finish.

The result delivers Australia its fourth consecutive home Ashes series victory by a margin of at least four Tests, underlining the team's continued dominance on home soil.

The final day also marked an emotional farewell for retiring opener Usman Khawaja, who made just six runs in his last Test innings. Khawaja walked onto the field to a guard of honour from England and departed to a standing ovation from the Sydney crowd, pausing to prostrate himself in front of the Members' Stand in a deeply personal moment of reflection.

"It means a lot. So much has gone into it. The game of cricket is so great," Khawaja said after the match.

"I tried to act cool, but the whole Test match I found it hard to manage my emotions and concentrate. I'm just glad we got the win and crossed the line.

"It's something I'll cherish for the rest of my life. I'm so grateful for the career I've had. This week has really been about being grateful.

"That was one final thank you from me - thank you for everything I've been given, and I wanted to end it on that note."