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Key Takeaways
- 1📊 Atkinson out: 31 series wkts, MCG hero
- 2🏆 Third injury: Wood, Archer precede hamstring blow
- 3💡 No Sydney replacement; depth challenged
- 4🔮 Ashes 2-1 to Aus; England eyes comeback
- 5💬 Scans confirm no-go for SCG decider
"Before the T20Is, Hardik may feature for Baroda in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, in compliance with the BCCI diktat of mandatory participation in domestic games"
England pacer Gus Atkinson is confirmed out of the decisive Ashes 2025 fifth Test at SCG after scans verified left hamstring injury from MCG win. He exited after five fiery overs on day two, non-returning in the two-day rout.
Atkinson's series haul—31 wickets—cemented his status, but joins Mark Wood (knee) and Jofra Archer (side) on sidelines. England skips replacement for January 4 start, backing squad depth.
Pace Attack in Tatters
Injury trifecta cripples Bazball: Atkinson's 90mph strikes vital, strike rate 28 in MCG. Like 2023 when Ollie Robinson hobbled, England adapts. No like-for-like, testing Woakes swing.
Sydney Test Pivots on Resilience
Australia leads 2-1; England chases history. Injuries amplify pressure on Stokes' gambles.
Finale Without Key Weapons
England eyes miracle sans Atkinson; series glory hangs. Must-watch decider.
"Atkinson ruled out after hamstring confirmation." - Cricbuzz
