England is poised to win the Ashes series "comfortably" against Australia, according to a former England batter, provided a couple of key factors fall into place. The ex-player suggests that the Australian team appears weaker than in previous years, particularly with key players missing from their lineup.
The 2025-26 Ashes series is scheduled to commence on November 21, 2025, in Perth. This five-match series will form part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship. Australia currently holds the Ashes, having won in 2021-22 and drawing the series in 2023.
Several factors contribute to the confidence in England's chances. Firstly, Australia's captain, Pat Cummins, and star fast bowler, Josh Hazlewood, will be absent, at least for the first Test due to injury. This absence narrows the gap between the two rivals and places pressure on the relatively inexperienced bowling attack. Steve Smith will reassume the captaincy in Cummins' absence. The Australian batting lineup, with the exception of Steve Smith, Travis Head, and wicketkeeper Alex Carey, also faces questions. Opener Usman Khawaja is approaching 40, which may impact his sharpness.
England's approach under captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, dubbed "Bazball," has instilled confidence in the team. This approach emphasizes aggressive batting and bowling. Since Stokes and McCullum took charge, England has scored at 4.56 runs per over, compared to 2.75 in their previous 145 years of Test cricket.
However, some cricket analysts have expressed reservations about England's aggressive approach. While acknowledging that England's fresh approach and increased run-scoring rate could worry the hosts, some commentators point out that England has not defeated Australia or India at home recently. Questions remain if "Bazball" can conquer the unforgiving conditions in Australia.
England's success may hinge on key players such as Zak Crawley, who is expected to shine in Australian conditions. Crawley's height equips him to handle the extra bounce, and he has previously performed well in Australia. Joe Root, who is still hunting for his maiden Test century in Australia, will also be crucial. Former rival Ricky Ponting believes that Root's hurdle is now purely mental, and if Root breaks that barrier early, it could give the entire English batting line-up the confidence they need.
Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes that England will win the series if they clinch the first Test in Perth, especially given Australia's injury concerns. He also anticipates that the English spinner Shoaib Bashir could outperform Nathan Lyon. Michael Vaughan has predicted the Ashes will finish in a 2-2 draw, with England winning the opener in Perth.
Despite the optimism surrounding England's chances, Australia has a strong home record and has not lost an Ashes series at home since 2015. Experts also predict that Australia will dominate the series and secure a clear victory. Mitchell Starc is also three wickets away from 100 Test dismissals.
