The Ashes 2025: Battle Commences in Perth
The long-awaited first Ashes Test of the 2025/26 series is finally underway, with England and Australia locking horns at the iconic Optus Stadium in Perth, Western Australia. The day began at 2:20am GMT, setting the stage for a fiercely contested opening chapter in this historic rivalry.
Team News: Captaincy Shake-Up and Fitness Boost
Australia takes to the field under a new leader, with Steve Smith deputising for the absent captain Pat Cummins. The home side's bowling attack is also significantly altered, missing pace bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott.
In a major boost for the tourists, England's fearsome pace attack has been bolstered by the inclusion of fast bowler Mark Wood, who has overcome a hamstring concern to make the squad. He joins a formidable line-up of quick bowlers including Ben Stokes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, and Gus Atkinson, giving England a wealth of options.
The Stakes: A Quest for Redemption Down Under
Ben Stokes' England side carries the weight of history into this series, aiming to secure their first Ashes series win on Australian soil since 2011. The opening day in Perth provides a critical opportunity for both teams to seize the initiative and lay down a marker for the contests to come.
With the action now live, all eyes are on Perth as this latest chapter of cricket's greatest rivalry unfolds.
