The cricketing world's most celebrated rivalry reignites as Australia hosts England for the first Test of the Ashes 2025-26 series at Perth Stadium this Friday. The match begins at 7:50 AM IST, marking the start of another thrilling chapter in this historic contest.
Team News and Key Absences
The home team enters the contest with significant challenges, missing their regular captain Pat Cummins due to a back injury. Adding to their concerns, experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will also sit out with a hamstring issue. In Cummins' absence, veteran batsman Steve Smith will lead the Australian side.
Australia has announced two debutants for this crucial opening match. Jake Weatherald will open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja, while pace bowler Brendan Doggett makes his Test debut. Interestingly, Doggett becomes the first pacer to earn an Australian Test cap in four years, highlighting the selectors' faith in the newcomer.
England's Bowling Boost and Historical Context
England receives a significant boost with the return of speedster Jofra Archer to Ashes cricket after a lengthy absence. The right-arm pacer will partner with Mark Wood, marking only the second time these two express bowlers have played together in Test cricket, potentially creating a formidable pace attack for the visitors.
Historical statistics heavily favor the Australians, particularly at home. The hosts have won 14 out of the last 18 encounters since the drawn Ashes series in England during 2023. More impressively, Australia remains unbeaten in their last six Test series on home soil, establishing a daunting record for any visiting team, including England.
Match Details and Viewing Information
The first Test between these arch-rivals will be played from November 21-25 at Perth Stadium. For Indian cricket enthusiasts, Star Sports serves as the official broadcaster, with live telecast available on Star Sports 1 and Star Sports 1 HD from 7:50 AM IST. Digital viewers can catch the action through live streaming on the JioHotstar app and website.
Confirmed Playing XIs:
Australia: Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (w), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Brendan Doggett, Scott Boland
England: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (w), Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood
With new leadership, returning stars, and promising debutants, the stage is set for an unforgettable opening to the Ashes 2025-26 series. Cricket fans worldwide await to see whether Australia can maintain their home dominance or if England can overcome historical hurdles to start the series on a winning note.
