The Ashes Series 2025–26 | England Squad & Full Series Fixtures
The Ashes is not just a cricket series—it’s one of the oldest and fiercest rivalries in the sport. England and Australia will lock horns once again in the 2025–26 Ashes series, starting on 21 November 2025 and running until 8 January 2026. For cricket fans across the globe, especially in Pakistan, India, and the subcontinent, this remains a must-watch contest.
This edition will be played in Australia and forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. With Australia holding the urn after their win in 2021–22 and the 2023 series ending 2–2, the pressure is on Ben Stokes’ men to reclaim the Ashes on away soil.
History & Context of The Ashes
The Ashes dates back to 1882, when Australia defeated England at The Oval, prompting a satirical obituary in a British newspaper stating that English cricket had died, and “the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia.” Since then, the two nations have competed in a best-of-five Test series almost every two years.
- Australia are currently ahead overall, holding 34 series wins compared to England’s 32, with 6 drawn.
- Some of the greatest names in cricket—Don Bradman, Shane Warne, Ian Botham, Andrew Flintoff, Steve Smith, Joe Root—have built their legacies in Ashes cricket.
- The 2025–26 edition promises more drama with England boosted by the return of injured stars and Australia looking to continue their dominance at home.
England Squad for Ashes 2025–26
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a 16-man squad. Key returns include Ben Stokes, back from shoulder surgery, and Mark Wood, recovering from knee injury. The surprise call is Will Jacks, included as a batting all-rounder and second spin option.
| Player | Role/Notes |
|---|---|
| Ben Stokes | Captain (fit after shoulder injury) |
| Harry Brook | Vice-captain (newly appointed) |
| Joe Root | Senior batter, key in middle order |
| Jofra Archer | Express fast bowler |
| Mark Wood | Pace spearhead, back from injury |
| Shoaib Bashir | Lead spinner, recovered from finger fracture |
| Gus Atkinson | Fast bowler |
| Ollie Pope | Top-order batter |
| Ben Duckett | Opener |
| Zak Crawley | Opener, form player |
| Will Jacks | All-rounder (spin + batting depth) |
| Josh Tongue | Fast bowler |
| Jamie Smith | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| Jacob Bethell | Young batting all-rounder |
| Matthew Potts | Fast bowler |
| Brydon Carse | Fast bowler |
Notable Absentees: Chris Woakes misses out due to fitness issues.
Ashes 2025–26: Full Match Schedule
The Ashes schedule is always iconic, with traditions like the Boxing Day Test at the MCG and the New Year’s Test in Sydney. Here’s the confirmed list of matches:
| Match | Dates | Venue | Notes |
| 1st Test | 21–25 November 2025 | Perth Stadium | First ever Ashes Test at Perth Stadium |
| 2nd Test | 4–8 December 2025 | The Gabba, Brisbane | Day/Night Test (Pink Ball) |
| 3rd Test | 17–21 December 2025 | Adelaide Oval | Traditional day Test |
| 4th Test | 26–30 December 2025 | Melbourne Cricket Ground | Boxing Day Test |
| 5th Test | 4–8 January 2026 | Sydney Cricket Ground | New Year’s Test (potential decider) |
Interesting News & Talking Points
- Ben Stokes’ Leadership: Returning after injury, Stokes’ captaincy will be vital. His aggressive style of “Bazball” cricket has redefined England’s Test game.
- Jofra Archer’s Return: Archer’s pace could be the x-factor England need in fast Australian conditions.
- Shoaib Bashir’s Opportunity: The young spinner is expected to play a big role, given the limited spin options in the squad.
- Australia’s Dominance at Home: England have not won an Ashes series in Australia since 2010–11. Breaking this streak will be a huge challenge.
- World Test Championship Impact: Every win matters in the race to the WTC final, making this series doubly important.
FAQs About Ashes 2025–26 ( ENG VS AUS )
When will the Ashes 2025–26 begin?
The first Test starts on 21 November 2025 in Perth.
Who is England’s captain for the Ashes?
Ben Stokes will lead the team, with Harry Brook as his deputy.
How many Tests are in the Ashes series?
There are five Test matches, played across major Australian venues.
Which match is the Boxing Day Test?
The 4th Test (26–30 December 2025) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Who are the key players to watch?
For England: Ben Stokes, Joe Root, Jofra Archer. For Australia: Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne.
What is special about the 2nd Test?
It’s a Day/Night Pink Ball Test at Brisbane
Is the Ashes part of the ICC World Test Championship?
Yes, the Ashes 2025–26 contributes points towards the 2025–27 WTC cycle.
Conclusion
The 2025–26 Ashes series promises to be a thrilling battle of skill, resilience, and national pride. England are determined to reclaim the urn, while Australia will aim to extend their home dominance. With the added significance of the World Test Championship, every ball will carry weight.
Who’s your pick to win the Ashes 2025–26—England or Australia? Drop your thoughts in the comments below & stay tuned for more THE ASHES 2025-26 updates on www.usmanoncricket.com
