The 2025/26 Ashes series commenced with the first Test match at Perth Stadium. England’s captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to bat first. The match started under clear skies on Friday, with fans eagerly anticipating the fierce cricketing contest between the two rivals. Australia entered the contest without injured stars Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Mitchell Starc leads the Aussie bowling attack, supported by Scott Boland and debutant Brendan Doggett.
Australia’s captain Steve Smith with England’s captain Ben Stokes
Australia’s Leadership and Team Composition
Steve Smith acts as Australia’s stand-in captain for the 41st time in Test cricket. Smith acknowledged the challenge posed by England’s aggressive approach under Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum’s “Bazball” philosophy. Australia’s pace stocks have been severely impacted by injuries, leaving Starc as the spearhead. Scott Boland brings experience while Doggett makes his Test debut, adding fresh energy to the Australian lineup.
Thiiiis close to a first ball wicket for Brendan Doggett!#Ashes pic.twitter.com/g5TK4qsvkD
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 21, 2025
England’s Tactical Approach
Ben Stokes confirmed that England fielded an all-pace attack, opting to leave out off-spinner Shoaib Bashir. Mark Wood is unavailable due to injury but remains part of the squad. Stokes noted the team’s preparation, drawing from plenty of venue and historical data, which suggests batting first is advantageous in Perth. England aims to break their long overseas Ashes drought, last having won in Australia during the 2010/11 series.
Match Day Events and Key Moments
The opening day saw Mitchell Starc dismantle England’s top order, including captain Joe Root. England’s batsmen struggled against the hostile Australian pace attack on a pitch offering extra bounce and seam movement. Jake Weatherald debuted for Australia after being drafted into the squad due to ongoing top-order instability. Weatherald opened with Usman Khawaja, forming Australia’s sixth opening pair since David Warner’s departure.
ROOT OUT FOR A 🦆
Starc has THREE! Wow!#Ashes pic.twitter.com/23IJaE5jQS
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 21, 2025
Smith’s Tactical Command
Smith leads an ageing Australian team but guarantees formidable leadership with an unbeaten home record in Ashes Tests. His tactical acumen and calm demeanour provide Australia with a psychological edge despite the team’s personnel challenges. Steve Smith highlighted the need to keep Ben Stokes quiet, recognising the England captain’s pivotal role in the visitors’ ambitions.
England’s Revival Under Stokes-McCullum
England’s approach this series combines Stokes’ on-field leadership and McCullum’s aggressive coaching style. The strategy focuses on pace dominance and high-tempo cricket to unsettle Australia. Stokes declared that the squad is built on determination and hard work, confident that fans will witness a compelling contest. England’s last Ashes victory in Australia was more than a decade ago, intensifying their motivation.
Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum
Australian Bowling Attack Dynamics
The absence of Cummins and Hazlewood left Mitchell Starc as Australia’s sole veteran pacer. Scott Boland has shown reliability and consistency leading into this match. Brendan Doggett brings raw pace and fresh enthusiasm to the attack as he makes his debut. This trio faces the difficult task of containing an England batting side known for resilience and aggression.
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Zak Crawley is the newest addition to Mitchell Starc’s wickets in the first over of a Test innings 🔥#Ashes pic.twitter.com/qWyKCPmxJp
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 21, 2025
Historical and Psychological Stakes
The Ashes rivalry carries immense historical weight, with Australia holding the urn since 2015. England’s recent record in Australia, marked by three winless tours, adds pressure on Stokes’ team. Australia continues to leverage home advantage, with Perth Stadium imposing unique challenges. The teams prepare for a long series that also includes matches in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.
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Looking Ahead: Series Trajectory
This opening Ashes Test sets the tone for the series, with high stakes on both sides. Australia focuses on maintaining control despite injuries, relying on experienced batsmen such as Smith, Travis Head, and Alex Carey. Cameron Green adds all-round balance. England’s blend of youth and pace aims to capitalise on Australian vulnerabilities. The series promises sustained competition over the next several weeks, with the urn on the line.
Broadcast and Viewer Information
The Ashes series receives extensive live coverage in Australia and internationally. In the UK, TNT Sports broadcasts the matches with commentary and analysis from former Ashes players. The scheduling challenges for England fans include overnight viewing due to time zone differences, especially for the Perth match. Future matches in Brisbane offer easier viewing hours with a day-night format.
In summary, the Ashes 2025 has begun with intense competition, strategic team selections, and key player absences impacting both sides. Stokes and Smith lead their respective teams into battle, each aware of the legacy and pressure of this historic contest. The cricket world watches as Australia and England reignite one of the sport’s greatest rivalries on Australian soil. The series remains poised to deliver high-standard cricket, tactical depth, and memorable moments ahead.
