Adelaide | December 21, 2025
Australia sealed the 2025–26 Ashes series in emphatic fashion with an 82-run victory over England in the third Test at Adelaide, taking an unassailable 3-0 lead and retaining the historic urn in just 11 days.
England showed late resistance on the final day through determined contributions from the lower middle order, but Australia’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured there was no dramatic turnaround.
Match Summary
Australia: 371 & 349
England: 286 & 352
Result: Australia won by 82 runs
Key Performers for Australia
Travis Head (170): Dominated England’s attack with a commanding century in the first innings
Alex Carey (72): Crucial runs under pressure and a standout performance behind the stumps
Mitchell Starc: Delivered with the new ball on the final day, finishing with three key wickets
Marnus Labuschagne: Exceptional in the slips, taking multiple sharp catches including the match-ending dismissal
The final blow came when Scott Boland forced an edge from Josh Tongue, safely held by Labuschagne at first slip, bringing an end to England’s resistance
England’s Fight Falls Short
Jamie Smith (60) and Will Jacks (47) kept hopes alive with an aggressive stand Brydon Carse (39):* Showed resilience in the lower order Missed chances in the field and top-order failures ultimately cost England the match and the series
Injury Concern for Australia
Spinner Nathan Lyon was forced off the field with a hamstring injury during England’s chase, but Australia’s pace attack responded well to maintain pressure and close out the game.
Ashes Secured With this win, Australia:
Retained the Ashes for the fourth consecutive home series
Asserted complete control over the series
Ended England’s hopes of a late comeback before Christmas
