Perth, November 20, 2025 - The Ashes 2025-26 series is set to begin at Optus Stadium in Perth on November 21, with the first Test preceded by a heated exchange between former England spinner Monty Panesar and Australian captain Steve Smith. The series marks the 74th edition of this historic rivalry between Australia and England.
Panesar ignited the verbal sparring by suggesting that the England team should target Smith's past involvement in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, often referred to as "Sandpapergate". He proposed that England's players should "make Steve Smith feel guilty" and question his ethics as captain.
Smith, who is standing in as captain for the first Test due to Pat Cummins' injury, responded to Panesar's goading with a sarcastic jab. He referenced Panesar's appearance on the British quiz show "Mastermind," where the spinner gave several incorrect answers. Smith recounted some of Panesar's more memorable gaffes, such as identifying Athens as being in Germany and mistaking "Oliver Twist" for a season of the year.
Panesar, however, stood his ground, stating, "We've both made mistakes. I made mine on a quiz show, he made his on a cricket field". He further added that he believes the ball-tampering incident is "still in his head, 100 percent" and that his comments could serve as "a piece of ammunition that we can use on Steve Smith".
The Australian camp has downplayed the significance of Panesar's comments. Smith himself stated that the comments "doesn't really bother me".
Australia will be without key players Pat Cummins (back injury) and Josh Hazlewood (hamstring) for the first Test. This has led to Brendan Doggett being selected to make his Test debut, while Scott Boland is also included in the team. Jake Weatherald is also set to open for Australia. Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon are expected to lead the Australian bowling attack.
England's preparation for the Ashes has been criticised by some, with only one warm-up match against England Lions. However, England is expected to field a pace-heavy attack, potentially including Jofra Archer and Mark Wood. Questions remain over Mark Wood's fitness.
The Optus Stadium pitch in Perth is known for its pace and bounce, which is expected to favour the fast bowlers. This will be the first Ashes Test held at the Optus Stadium.
Australia has not lost an Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane since 1986. England has not won an Ashes series in Australia since 2010-11.
The weather forecast for the first Test in Perth predicts warm conditions, with temperatures reaching 26 degrees Celsius.
The first Test begins on November 21 at 7:50 AM IST.
