Cricket Australia has officially revealed the dates for the much-anticipated 2025-26 Ashes series, with a notable shake-up in the traditional schedule. For the first time since 1982-83, Brisbane will not host the opening match. Instead, the series will kick off in Perth, with the second Test being a day-night encounter at Brisbane’s Gabba.
Perth to open Ashes 2025-2026
The Ashes series will begin at Perth Stadium from 21st to 25th November 2025. This marks a continuation of the trend that has seen Perth host the opening Test for the past two Australian summers. Australia has an unbeaten record at this venue, which adds an element of excitement for fans and players alike.
Former Australia allrounder Shane Watson, among others, has voiced concerns over the move away from the Gabba as the traditional opener, but the national team seems content with the switch to Perth.
Brisbane to Host Day-Night Test
Following the opener, the action will move to Brisbane for a day-night Test at the Gabba from 4th to 8th December. This will be the fourth time the Gabba hosts a day-night Test, with its most recent pink-ball match featuring the West Indies’ famous victory earlier this year. However, this could potentially be the last Ashes Test at the iconic venue as redevelopment plans for the 2032 Olympics put its future in doubt.
Some critics have questioned the decision to host the day-night Test in Brisbane, with Australia’s bowlers previously stating that the pink ball performs better on Adelaide’s surface than Brisbane’s. Despite concerns over the ball losing its effectiveness at the Gabba, the fixture stands, and fans will witness the pink-ball spectacle under the Brisbane lights.
Adelaide’s Christmas Test and Iconic Boxing Day Clash
Adelaide will host the third Test from 17th to 21st December in a day format, moving away from its traditional pink-ball fixture. Adelaide’s shift comes as part of a broader strategy to position the Test as a marquee holiday event, attracting large crowds and boosting tourism during the festive period.
The iconic Boxing Day Test will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from 26th to 30th December, continuing the long-standing tradition that is synonymous with the Ashes. This match is expected to draw huge crowds and be a focal point of the series.
New Year’s Test in Sydney
The series will conclude with the New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), scheduled from 4th to 8th January 2026. The SCG has always held a special place in Ashes history, and this fixture will be a fitting finale for what promises to be another enthralling chapter in cricket’s oldest rivalry.
Future of the Gabba Uncertain
The redevelopment of the Gabba ahead of the 2032 Olympics raises questions about the future of the venue as a Test ground. With no Test scheduled there for the 2026-27 season, and the stadium likely to be unusable by 2030, next year’s day-night Test could be the last Ashes fixture at this historic venue.
Fans gear for memorable Australia vs England series
Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the 2025-26 Ashes, which will feature some of the most iconic venues in Australian cricket. With changes to the traditional rota and the addition of more day-night games, this series promises to deliver excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.
For those planning to attend, Cricket Australia has already opened the Travel Office waiting list, ensuring fans can secure their spot to witness history in the making. The Ashes remain one of the most prestigious events in world sport, and the 2025-26 edition will undoubtedly add to the rich legacy of this legendary contest.
2025-26 Men’s Ashes series dates:
- Perth Test (West Test): Perth Stadium | Nov 21-25
- Brisbane Test (Day/Night Test): Gabba | Dec 4-8
- Adelaide Test (Christmas Test): Adelaide Oval | Dec 17-21
- Melbourne Test (Boxing Day Test): MCG | Dec 26-30
- Sydney Test (New Year’s Test): SCG | Jan 4-8
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