Contents
Ashes Series 2025-26: Can England Finally Break the Curse?
The Ashes series is just around the corner, and the hype is palpable. England is looking to break the curse and win in Australia for the first time since 2010-11. But can they really do it? In this article, we’ll take a look at the chances of England and what they need to do to take down the Australians.
What’s the Big Deal About the Ashes?
The Ashes is the oldest rivalry in cricket, and it’s always a big deal. But this series has been amped up to a new level, despite England’s woeful record in Australia. So, what’s behind the hype? One reason is the style of cricket England has adopted, dubbed ‘Bazball’ by one of ESPNcricinfo’s own. This new style of cricket has given England a sense of optimism, and they’re looking to come and have a go in a manner that few English teams in Australia have managed this century.
Can England Really Win?
Australia has been dominant in recent years, winning five of their last seven Test series, including four in a row. They also reached the final of the World Test Championship, although they lost out on the mace to South Africa. But England has been planning for this campaign for a long time, and they’ve assembled what might be their fastest-ever bowling attack in a bid to win in Australia for the first time since 2010-11.
Australia’s Weaknesses
Australia, on the other hand, has significant question marks over their XI. They’ve picked a squad with only one player under the age of 30, and they’ll be fielding a debutant opener. They’ve also been beset by untimely injuries, with captain Pat Cummins missing the first Test and Josh Hazlewood out with a hamstring strain. But can England take advantage of these weaknesses?
England’s Chances
England has been lucky with injuries so far, with Mark Wood surviving his own hamstring-knack scare over the weekend. They also have the No. 1 and No. 2-ranked Test batters, Joe Root and Harry Brook, as well as a fit Ben Stokes. The only major talking point around their batting order – the identity of No. 3 – was put to bed during the warm-up game against England Lions by Ollie Pope making scores of 100 and 90.
What to Expect
The series starts in Perth, where England has only ever won once. Then it’s on to the pink-ball day-night game at the Gabba in Brisbane, followed by Adelaide, which last hosted England for a daytime Test in 2013-14. If the Ashes are still alive come the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, we should have a series on our hands.
Conclusion
So, can England finally break the curse and win in Australia? It’s certainly their best shot in a long while. At the very least, it’s to be hoped that England won’t have conceded the contest inside 12 days’ cricket. Let’s see what happens, but one thing’s for sure – this Ashes series is going to be one to watch.
