The most anticipated rivalry in cricket ignites as Australia and England commence the 2025-26 Ashes series at Perth’s Optus Stadium. England, under the leadership of Ben Stokes and the ‘Bazball’ philosophy, face their ultimate challenge: winning a Test in Australia for the first time since 2011. The hosts, however, are grappling with significant injuries to their premier pace attack, setting the stage for a compelling and unpredictable series opener.
Australia vs England Win Probability
AUS vs ENG Batting Tips
Australia vs England 1st Test Match Details
| Match | The Ashes 2025-26, 1st Test |
| Date | Friday, 21 November – Tuesday, 25 November 2025 |
| Time | 07:50 AM (IST) / 10:20 AM (Local) |
| Venue | Optus Stadium, Perth |
| Live Streaming (TV) | Star Sports Network (Star Sports 1 and Star Sports 1 HD) |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | JioHotstar |
AUS vs ENG Today Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
This is an exceptionally tough match to call. Australia’s historic dominance at home makes them slight favorites, but their bowling attack is severely weakened by the absence of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. England senses a golden opportunity to strike first. Their aggressive batting approach and deep pace reserves could exploit the hosts’ vulnerabilities. However, stepping up in Australian conditions is a monumental task. The team that adapts quickest to the new-look Perth pitch will gain a crucial advantage.
A closely-fought contest, with Australia holding a slight edge due to home conditions.
Australia vs England Head to Head (Recent Ashes in Australia)
| Total Match Played | 15 |
| AUS Won | 13 |
| ENG Won | 00 |
| Draws | 02 |
AUS vs ENG Teams Preview (Top Players to Watch Out)
Australia
The hosts face a selection puzzle with two debutants likely. Their batting will rely heavily on the experience of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne. Bowling, however, is their main concern. With Cummins and Hazlewood out, the burden falls on Mitchell Starc to lead the attack. Scott Boland, recalling his 2021 heroics, becomes a critical component, especially if the pitch offers seam movement.
AUS Probable Playing XI-
Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
Top Players to Watch– Travis Head & Scott Boland.
England
This is England’s best chance in over a decade to win a Test in Australia. Their batting will be aggressive, as always, with Joe Root central to their hopes. The key lies in their pace attack. The return of Jofra Archer, combined with the express pace of Mark Wood, gives them a potent weapon to target the Australian batting lineup, including a potentially fragile top order.
ENG Probable Playing XI-
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Mark Wood, Josh Tongue, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir
Top Players to Watch– Joe Root & Jofra Archer
AUS vs ENG Weather & Pitch Report
The Optus Stadium pitch in Perth is expected to be fast and bouncy. However, reports suggest it may offer more swing and seam movement than traditional Australian surfaces, which could bring the bowlers from both sides into the game significantly.
Mostly sunny conditions are forecast for the five days, with a small chance of light rain on day three. Temperatures will be warm, peaking on day one before cooling slightly.
Australia vs England Fantasy Teams
- Wicket-keeper- Alex Carey
- Batter- Steve Smith (VC), Joe Root (C), Marnus Labuschagne, Harry Brook
- All-rounder- Ben Stokes, Cameron Green
- Bowler- Mitchell Starc, Jofra Archer, Scott Boland, Mark Wood
Pro Tip- Always check your fantasy team after the playing 11 is announced. It usually happens about half an hour before the match starts. So, after 07:20 AM (IST), review the playing 11 and compare it with your fantasy team to make sure everything matches.
Disclaimer- This prediction is based on our understanding and analysis of the game, including past matches and player performances. It is intended for entertainment purposes only. We do not endorse or encourage illegal activities of any kind. Please note that Dream 11 is currently offering a free-to-play fantasy league for users outside India in line with its new promotional structure. We are not responsible for any financial loss incurred and advise checking your local laws regarding online gaming.
