Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, an avid cricket fan, hosted players from the England and Australian teams ahead of the last Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which begins on Sunday, January 4. They had gathered at Kirribilli House on Thursday to have some light-hearted moments away from the pitch.
The typical annual New Year’s Day reception followed the Boxing Day Test, which was held at the renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Test match ended in two days, breaking England’s three-match losing record in the series.
In response to such result, Anthony Albanese humorously challenged the two teams to do it their all to extend the Sydney Test until at least Day 3.
He emphasised the importance of the third day, which is designated as Jane McGrath Day. It raises awareness and finances for the McGrath Foundation, which helps families afflicted by breast cancer.
Glenn McGrath, a legendary former Australian speedster, is spearheading the campaign, which began after his wife Jane died from the disease.
“Day three in this Test is really important. More than the others,” Albanese was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald. “So whatever you do, if things are going wrong, just get someone to play out a couple of sessions, because we do want day three.”
Taking to X later, Albanese described the five-match series as “unlike any other” and opined the SCG would turn into a “sea of pink” as Australian fans and the Barmy Army support the foundation’s work in unison.
It’s been an Ashes series unlike any other.
And from Sunday the SCG will be a sea of pink with Aussie fans and the Barmy Army supporting the great work of the McGrath Foundation.
Let’s go Australia. pic.twitter.com/O75220KyDh
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) January 1, 2026
The 90-minute reception, hosted by Albanese and his wife Jodie Haydon, saw players and officials from both nations enjoying the seafood menu. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg and chairman Mike Baird were also present, while Glenn McGrath addressed the gathering on behalf of the foundation.
Australia already retained the Ashes after winning the first three games of the series. While the Aussies have beaten England comprehensively in Test matches at home in recent years, the three wins in the ongoing series were a significant achievement, as Josh Hazlewood was ruled out ahead of the series, and regular captain Pat Cummins could only play the encounter in Adelaide.
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