Ashes 2025-26 : Alyssa Healy’s adorable reaction steals the limelight as Mitchell Starc bags Player of the Series in

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Australia sealed the Ashes 2025-26 with a thrilling five-wicket victory over England in the 5th Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, clinching the series 4-1. Chasing 160 on a lively pitch, Australia stumbled to 121/5 before Alex Carey and Cameron Green steadied the ship, underscoring their dominance in the iconic rivalry. Mitchell Starc‘s brilliance earned him Player of the Series honours, capping a campaign that redefined his legacy.​

Healy, Starc’s wife and Australian women’s captain, delivered an adorable reaction from the commentators’ green room as her husband received the Player of the Series award post-match. Footage captured Healy playfully punching the air in jubilation, her face lighting up with pride amid fellow commentators, a moment that quickly went viral among fans. The celebration carried a cheeky edge, subtly nodding to her earlier clash with Kerry O’Keeffe, who had overlooked Starc in his pre-match prediction for the top performer.​​

Healy’s joy stemmed from defending her husband’s form after O’Keeffe’s snub sparked debate, turning the honour into sweet vindication. Her enthusiastic punches and broad smile highlighted the personal stakes in Starc’s triumph, blending family support with competitive banter in cricket’s high-pressure world. This light-hearted dig resonated with audiences, amplifying the human side of Ashes glory.​

"Cop that, Kerry" – A proud Alyssa Healy#Ashes #TheAshes #AUSvENG #Cricket #KayoSports

— Kayo Sports (@kayosports) January 8, 2026

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Starc spearheaded Australia’s attack, claiming 31 wickets across five Tests at an average of 19.93, including two five-wicket hauls that dismantled England’s batting. He contributed 156 runs with the bat, featuring two fifties, showcasing all-round mastery despite injuries sidelining Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. In Sydney, Starc’s 2/93 and 3/72, plus crucial strikes against Jacob Bethell‘s 154, sealed England’s fate and his award.​

Starc’s haul placed him among elites like Shane Warne and Mitchell Johnson, equalling Rangana Herath‘s left-arm record while earning two Player of the Match nods. His pace and swing terrorized England, from Perth’s 7/58 to Brisbane’s 6/75, propelling Australia atop the World Test Championship. Healy’s reaction perfectly mirrored the widespread awe at Starc’s resurgence, cementing his status as Ashes 2025-26’s standout star.

Also READ: Fans erupt as clinical Australia crush England in SCG Test to clinch Ashes series 4–1