Sports · 9 January 2026

Australia wins Sydney test to seal Ashes 2025-26 series

Exam-focused facts from the 9 January 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

  • Usman Khawaja announced his retirement from international cricket, stating the upcoming New Year’s Ashes Test in Sydney will be his final one.
  • In his career of 87 Tests, Khawaja scored 6206 runs at an average of 43.39 with 16 tons and 28 half-centuries to his name.
  • In the Ashes 2025-26 tournament, Australia wins Sydney test by 5 wickets, seal series by 4-1.
  • In the Hockey India League (HIL), Ranchi Royals come alive in a dead rubber to beat final-bound SG Pipers 5-2.
  • PV Sindhu progressed at the Malaysia Open after defeating World No 9 Tomoka Miyazaki.

View this story in the full daily briefing

Earlier coverage selected by topic similarity to help connect developments over time.

Robin Smith passes away aged 62

Robin Smith, one of the finest players of fast bowling during an era when the England team were often viewed as a national joke, has died at the age of 62. Smith made his England debut in 1988 and played 62 Tests…