Sat Jan 03 23:30:00 UTC 2026: ## Australia Dominates Ashes, England Scrambles to Salvage Pride in Sydney Test
Sydney, Australia – Australia has retained the Ashes urn, securing an unassailable 3-1 lead over England after dominating the first three Tests. Wins in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide have sealed the series victory for the home side, ensuring England’s drought in Australia extends beyond 2011.
While England managed a consolation win in Melbourne’s Boxing Day Test, their overall performance has been heavily criticized. Former England captain Michael Atherton has described the series as the “most underwhelming Ashes” in years, lamenting the “one-sided and uncompetitive” matches.
Atherton highlighted the stark contrast between the pre-series hype and the reality on the field, noting the “haphazard, error-strewn and slapdash cricket” on display. Despite Australian fans celebrating their team’s dominance, Atherton suggests a desire for a more competitive contest in the final Sydney Test.
Questions have been raised about England’s form under the leadership of coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, despite a strong start to their tenure. Stokes has defended McCullum, expressing unwavering support for his methods, but Atherton believes England may have taken a “wrong turn” in their preparations.
Looking ahead, Atherton pointed to potential transitions within the Australian squad, with Usman Khawaja hinting at retirement. Meanwhile, Stokes has acknowledged the need for reflection and recalibration within the England camp, emphasizing the importance of re-establishing a results-oriented approach.
Atherton also expressed concern over McCullum’s expanding role into white-ball cricket, suggesting it could hinder immediate reflection on the Ashes tour. As the series heads to Sydney, England will be desperate to salvage pride and end their Australian tour on a positive note.
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