The Ashes 2025-26 kicks off in Perth on Friday as England look to reclaim the urn after a 2-2 draw in 2023. Ben Stokes’ side aims to end England’s 14-year wait for an Ashes win in Australia. Australia, the current holders, have the home advantage. Here’s a look at the favourites.

Who are the favourites to win the Ashes 2025-26?

Australia are the favourites for the Ashes, although they do have some injury concerns. England face a significant challenge, particularly with their disappointing record in Australia, which includes multiple heavy defeats since 2010-11. With Pat Cummins still recovering from a back injury, Steve Smith will step in as Australia’s captain for the opening Test in Perth. Australia’s pitches have long been suited to fast bowlers, but recent conditions may give England a chance to take advantage of swing.

England’s Bid to Break 14 Years of winless run
England enter the 2025-26 Ashes as underdogs. The 2023 draw gave hope, but it’s uncertain if “Bazball” will thrive on Australia’s fast pitches. England’s recent record against Australia and India has been similar, with little change in results. Stokes and McCullum face tough selection choices, including who bats at three. England’s bowlers must step up, while Root and Brook will need to score big runs to give them a chance.

Could the Ashes End in a Draw? What Are the Chances?

A 2-2 draw in the 2025-26 Ashes, which would see Australia retain the urn, is a real possibility. This was the outcome in 2023 and could easily happen again, especially if weather disrupts any Test, as we saw at Old Trafford last time. A draw would mean Australia hold on to the Ashes.

When does the Ashes series begin?

The Ashes 2025-26 series is set to kick off in Perth on November 21.

Ashes 2025-26: Why England have a chance to win back the urn

England haven’t won an Ashes Test in Australia for 14 years, but under Ben Stokes, things are different. The focus is not just on quick scoring, but on dominating regardless of conditions. Here’s why England could defy history.

Archer & Wood: England’s pace threat

With Jofra Archer and Mark Wood fit, England boast a high-speed attack perfect for Australia’s pitches. If they stay injury-free, they could provide the firepower England lacked in previous series.

Australia’s ageing Attack

Australia’s fast bowlers are battle-worn, and with injuries to Cummins and Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc will be under pressure. If England’s aggressive batting tires them out, the Aussie attack could wear thin in the series.

Middle-Order power

While Joe Root’s century quest is crucial, the real difference-makers could be Harry Brook and Ben Stokes. Both are well-suited to fast pitches.

What is the all-time Ashes series record?

In 73 Ashes series, Australia have won 34 times, England have triumphed 32 times, and 7 series have ended in a draw.

Recent Ashes series results in Australia

In the last 35 years, England have won only six of 45 Tests in Australia, with three of those victories coming in a single series. England have often been outclassed, rarely challenging Australia. Here’s a recap of their recent Ashes tours Down Under.

When was England’s last Ashes victory in Australia?

England’s last Ashes win in Australia came in 2010-11, when they triumphed 3-1, with victories in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. This remains England’s only series win in Australia in recent decades, with their wins in this series equaling the total number of victories across several subsequent Ashes tours.

The Ashes prediction: England to break the drought and reclaim the urn

This England team is mentally stronger and built for tough challenges. Their aggressive style is the perfect response to Australia’s hostile conditions. With a refreshed pace attack and talented young batsmen, they have what it takes to defy the odds. England will win the series 3-2 and reclaim the Ashes.