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Photograph: (Source: ESPN Cric Info)
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The front-runner to captain Australia's spin attack in the fifth Test of the Ashes 2025–26, which will begin on Sunday, January 4, at the Sydney Cricket Ground, is Todd Murphy. Despite having already lost the series, English opener Zak Crawley is unconcerned and has reiterated that the visitors will continue to their cherished Bazball technique in a match when they play for pride and nothing else.
The England cricket team, led by Ben Stokes, has a good chance of winning in Sydney and wrapping out the series on a positive note. Even though they have already lost the series, their confidence has been high after winning the Boxing Day Test match, which was completed in just two days of play.
England for Ashes Series Finale:
In an interview with reporters before the New Year's Test, Crawley reaffirmed that England has no intention of altering their playing philosophy in advance of the SCG match, regardless of the outcome. Therefore, having Todd Murphy—or any bowler, for that matter—would not need the Englishmen to adopt a new strategy.
Cricbuzz quotes Crawley saying, "Whoever plays, I think that's the mantra of our team, is to try to put pressure on people. Todd's a very good bowler, but I can envisage us trying to put some pressure on him, like we would all their bowlers. That's going to come with some risks, and if it's turning, it's definitely going to be a threat."
Since Nathan Lyon was sidelined for the Ashes due to a hamstring injury sustained during the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, Murphy has gained prominence for the uninitiated. After tearing his hamstring early on Day 2, he was unable to participate in the match any further. As a result, he will be out of cricket for an extended period of time.
With the Australians leading 3-1, Murphy will try to make an impression in the series' last game as he has the leeway to express himself. It will be an exciting match between England and the off-spinner in an epic series finale, as England will be trying to put an end to the attack.
Watch this space for more cricket news and updates.