The Ashes may be considered one of the smallest prizes in world sport, but it surely means a heck of quite a bit to England and Australia.
For nearly 150 years now, this historic rivalry has been full of drama, controversy and iconic moments. And while the urn itself could also be tiny, the bragging rights couldn’t be larger.
England haven’t won the Ashes since 2015. Since then, Australia have twice retained the urn on home soil and held onto it in back-to-back away draws in 2019 and 2023.
Their dominance has been total—but for England fans hoping for a change in fortunes, the 2025-26 series brings fresh hope.
Brendon McCullum’s all-action ‘Bazball’ revolution has transformed England’s approach to Test cricket, and while he was in charge for that thrilling drawn series in 2023, this shall be his first taste of Ashes cricket in Australia.
Australia, though, remain odds-on favourites. Home advantage, recent history and a settled squad all swing the percentages of their favour. But with no deposit free bets available across major UK sportsbooks within the build-up to the series, some punters may be tempted to take a probability on England finally turning the tide.
Here’s all the things it is advisable know concerning the key dates for the 2025-26 Ashes.
First Test – Optus Stadium, Perth (21–25 November)
The series kicks off in Perth, where England have a dismal recent record. Their last win in Western Australia got here back in 1978. The additional pace and bounce at Optus Stadium will suit Australia’s fast bowlers—particularly if the wicket has anything just like the carry we saw within the 2021-22 series.
Expect England’s batters to be tested early. Facing the likes of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc—who will all likely be playing their last Ashes—with a brand-new Kookaburra ball in Western Australia is a trial by fire. But this latest England team doesn’t back down.
Second Test – The Gabba, Brisbane (4–8 December)
The Gabba is an Australian fortress. England’s last win here was in 1986, and the bottom famously hosted Australia’s 33-match unbeaten streak in Tests, which was only broken by India in 2021. For touring teams, it’s often where dreams of Ashes glory begin to unravel.
Nevertheless, it also offers opportunity. Brisbane’s pitch has turn out to be slightly less energetic in recent times, and England shall be hoping for some swing from the pink ball under lights if conditions are right. It’s also the location where they were bowled out for 147 on the primary morning of the 2021 series—so there’s loads of motivation to place that right.
Third Test – Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (17–21 December)
A wonderful setting and a historic venue, the Adelaide Oval will host the third Test just days before Christmas. Adelaide is considered one of the more batter-friendly grounds in Australia, especially early on, but it might offer something for spin and reverse swing because the match progresses. England will should be tactically sharp and patient.
It has been considered one of the higher grounds for England in recent times, even in defeat. Their narrow loss in 2017 and a few strong performances within the early 2000s suggest it’s a spot they will compete. A result here, for either side, could swing the momentum massively heading into the festive period.
Fourth Test – MCG, Melbourne (26–30 December)
The Boxing Day Test on the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a bucket-list fixture for any cricketer, and this could possibly be the crown jewel of the 2025-26 series. With over 100,000 fans expected, the atmosphere shall be electric—especially if the series remains to be alive.
England’s last win on the MCG got here in 2010, a part of their historic 3-1 series win. Since then, they’ve managed a draw and suffered a few humbling defeats. It’s a ground that rewards discipline and patience—each key attributes if England are to grind out a lead to front of a hostile crowd.
Fifth Test – SCG, Sydney (4–8 January)
The series finale heads to Sydney, where England’s record is barely higher than elsewhere in Australia—but still patchy. The SCG is traditionally a spinner’s ground, and conditions in early January could bring slow turn and variable bounce into play.
This might work in England’s favour, and Jack Leach may prove vital if the series remains to be on the road. The ultimate Test could produce all of the drama you’d expect from a possible Ashes decider.