Ashes 2023: The last roll of dice from Stokes and Co., as England take on Australia in dead rubber

Australia has won the toss for the first time this series and opted to bowl in the fifth and final Ashes test against England on Thursday. Australia has already retained the Ashes after a draw in the fourth test. The Aussies lead the series 2-1 going into the final game at The Oval with a chance to win it outright.

Australia make one change in last Ashes Test

(Pat Cummins at the toss of the 5th Ashes 2023 Test / Image: AP)

Australia captain Pat Cummins said there was one change to his team, with spinner Todd Murphy selected in place of allrounder Cameron Green. England had already named its team ahead of the game and will field the same lineup from the fourth test.

That means veteran fast bowler James Anderson will play in the series-ender, which is likely to be his last Ashes test and possibly his last match for England. England’s leading wicket-taker in tests will turn 42 during the fifth test.

Pat Cummins and Co. retain the coveted urn

England was in control of the fourth test in Manchester before rain spoiled the end of the match to deny the home team a chance to take the series to a decisive game at the Oval. Australia has held the Ashes since 2017.