Australia Focus Shifts to World Test Championship as Ashes Wrap Up | SCG Test Preview

Australia’s attention has shifted firmly from the Ashes to the World Test Championship (WTC) as the final Test of a one-sided home summer kicks off at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Cricket Australia’s officials are keen to avoid another rain-affected short Test after two previous matches in the series lasted just two days.

Following their decisive victory in the third Test at Adelaide, which sealed the Ashes 3-0, Australia’s standout performers — Travis Head, Alex Carey, and Mitchell Starc — outplayed a struggling England side. The MCG defeat last week ensured England avoided a 5-0 whitewash, but Australia is now fully focused on boosting their position in the World Test Championship.

Steve Smith, leading Australia in this match, said, “The Ashes were wrapped up at 3-0. Now it’s all about the Test Championship. Every match in this competition is crucial.”

Australia currently lead the WTC table with six wins from seven Tests, with only a recent loss to South Africa blemishing their record. A win in Sydney would increase their points percentage to 87.5%, well ahead of New Zealand who are second with 77.78%.

Smith acknowledged the disappointment of last week’s loss but remained optimistic. “We were outplayed towards the end of that game. Hopefully, we can bounce back here and finish the series 4-1. More importantly, we want to win matches in the Test Championship cycle.”

After an intense 2025 that included tours to Sri Lanka and the West Indies and the WTC final, Australia will face a seven-month gap in Test cricket after the SCG Test. With Usman Khawaja expected to retire soon and a packed schedule from August onwards, selectors will have plenty to consider before Bangladesh tours during the winter.

Smith emphasized the need to build a core group for the World Test Championship journey: “There’s a break before the Bangladesh series, and a chance for players to push their claims. The goal is to have a reliable squad to challenge for the WTC final again.”

England captain Ben Stokes, meanwhile, prioritizes pride over points on a challenging tour. “Every time we take the field for England, it’s important — no matter the series score. Our main aim is to win this Test, and if we do, the WTC points will follow.”