NEW DELHI: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed players from both Australia and England ahead of the final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground with his traditional New Year’s Day reception at Kirribilli House on Thursday.

The informal gathering came just days before the fifth Test, scheduled from January 4 to 8, and provided a light-hearted build-up to what promises to be a high-profile finale to the series.

Albanese, speaking to players during the interaction, joked about the importance of ensuring the match lasts long enough to reach the third day.

The occasion is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the McGrath Foundation, an initiative led by former Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath in memory of his late wife Jane, who lost her battle with breast cancer.

“Day three in this Test is really important. More than the others. 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. It is something very special,” Albanese was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Australia head into the Sydney Test leading the five-match Ashes series 3-1 and will be keen to seal the contest with a win.

With a few key players unavailable, the hosts will still need to be at their best against an England side that finally showed flashes of brilliance during the Melbourne Test.