The Ashes 2025-26: Jacob Bethell makes maiden century in fifth Test in Sydney

Jacob Bethell’s stunning first century gave England an Ashes silver lining but could not stop the tourists from sliding towards defeat in the fifth Test against Australia.

Playing in his sixth Test, the 22-year-old established himself as England’s long-term number three with a stunning unbeaten score of 142 at the sunny Sydney Cricket Ground.

But late on the fourth day the wickets left England 302-8 in the second innings, leading by just 119 at the close.

It will take a significant contribution from Bethell and the tail end, followed by an excellent bowling performance on the wear pitch, to prevent Australia from finishing the final day of the series as 4-1 winners on Thursday.

Had it not been for Bethell’s breakthrough strike, England would have been defeated on day four, which began with captain Ben Stokes leaving the field with a right groin injury.

England still managed to take the last three wickets for 23 runs in Australia’s first innings, including Steve Smith for 138. The home team’s total of 567 gave them a 183-run lead.

Bethell wiped it out in stands 81 with Ben Duckett and 134 with Harry Brook; Both received 42 points.

But while Brook is under scrutiny for a sharp break from Beau Webster, Will Jacks has joined the list of England batsmen to bowl a ridiculous haul on this tour.

Jamie Smith ran out due to a mix-up with Bethell, the limping Stokes started to slip and Brydon Carse edged out the great Scott Boland. Overall England lost five wickets for 78 runs.

He left Matthew Potts alongside Bethell, who managed to rise above England’s mediocrity and stay at the close. He was impressed that the Loud Barmy Army was hailed as their new hero.