Sat Jan 03 23:10:00 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:

Summary:

England wrapped up their final practice session before the fifth and final Ashes Test in Sydney. The leadership group, including captain Ben Stokes, coach Brendon McCullum, and director of cricket Robert Key, appeared relaxed despite a disappointing series defeat. England aims to end the tour on a positive note with a win in Sydney, improving the series scoreline to 3-2, which would be viewed much more favorably than 4-1. Australia, already having secured the Ashes, is focused on regaining World Test Championship points. There’s uncertainty regarding the SCG pitch and the Australian team selection, with discussions about spinners and workload management for bowlers. England’s main selection question revolves around the inclusion of Shoaib Bashir as a specialist spinner and Matthew Potts will replace the injured Gus Atkinson. The match also carries significance for Usman Khawaja, potentially his final international appearance at his childhood home ground.

News Article:

England Seek Consolation Victory in Sydney Ashes Test; Australia Eye World Test Championship Points

Sydney, Australia – England concluded their final practice session at the SCG on Saturday, with captain Ben Stokes, coach Brendon McCullum, and director of cricket Robert Key observed in seemingly relaxed spirits despite their Ashes series defeat. The team is gearing up for the fifth and final Test against Australia, beginning January 4th, with a clear goal: to salvage a positive result from a disappointing tour.

A victory in Sydney would improve the series scoreline to 3-2, a far more palatable outcome than a potential 4-1 loss. Stokes emphasized the importance of the Sydney Test, stating that it will significantly impact how this tour is remembered.

Australia, having already secured the Ashes, is now setting its sights on bolstering its World Test Championship points. The match is also expected to be a significant moment for Australian opener Usman Khawaja, with the SCG being the potential final Test match on his childhood home ground.

Uncertainty surrounds the SCG pitch, with pre-match discussions focusing on the unusually grassy surface and whether it will favor spinners. This uncertainty is reflected in Australia’s team selection, with captain Steve Smith indicating a decision on the final XI will be made on the morning of the Test. Options being considered include playing both Cameron Green and Beau Webster as all-rounders. Jhye Richardson also appears to be in contention for a place.

England’s selection focus is on whether to include Shoaib Bashir as the specialist spinner, potentially ahead of Will Jacks. Matthew Potts is confirmed to replace the injured Gus Atkinson.

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