The highly anticipated 2025-26 Ashes series is set to commence on Friday, November 21st, with Perth’s Optus Stadium as the venue for the inaugural Test. As long-time rivals Australia and England gear up for another thrilling contest, both sides will be looking to make a strong start. Australia enters the opening match as the favored team.
For the first Test, Steve Smith will be leading the Australian squad, stepping in for the injured Pat Cummins. The absence of Josh Hazlewood alongside Cummins marks a rare occasion for the Australian team, as it’s the first home Test since 2022 without both key fast bowlers. Brendan Doggett is slated to make his Test debut in Perth, while opener Jake Weatherald aims to resolve Australia’s top-order batting concerns. The return of Cameron Green provides a significant boost to the Australian lineup, especially given the unavailability of some experienced players.
England, under the leadership of Ben Stokes, boasts a complete squad and is determined to break their extended streak of not winning a Test match on Australian soil. England’s last Test victory in Australia dates back to the 2010-11 Ashes series. In their last three tours Down Under, they have faced 13 defeats, with draws being their best results.
Excitingly, the potent pace bowling combination of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood is fit and ready, set to play together for only the second time in their careers. Cricket enthusiasts in India can follow all the action through the Star Sports Network. Live streaming will be available on JioHotstar, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of this iconic series.