Cricket Australia Announces 2025-26 Ashes Dates

Cricket Australia has announced the eagerly awaited dates for the 2025-26 Ashes series. The series will kick off in Perth, a departure from the traditional Gabba opener, and will feature a day-night Test in Brisbane.

Perth to Host Series Opener

The Ashes will begin at Perth Stadium from November 21-25, 2025. This will be the third consecutive summer that Perth hosts the opening Test, and Australia has an impressive unbeaten record at this venue. While some, including former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson, have expressed concerns about moving away from the Gabba as the traditional opener, the national team seems content with the switch to Perth.

Gabba to Host Day-Night Test

The second Test of the series will be a day-night encounter at the Gabba in Brisbane, scheduled from December 4-8. This will be the fourth time the Gabba hosts a pink-ball Test, and it could potentially be the last Ashes Test at this iconic venue due to redevelopment plans for the 2032 Olympics.

Adelaide to Host Christmas Test

The third Test will be played in Adelaide from December 17-21, marking a shift away from the traditional pink-ball fixture. Adelaide’s decision to host a day game aligns with a broader strategy to attract larger crowds and boost tourism during the festive period.

Melbourne and Sydney to Host Traditional Tests

The iconic Boxing Day Test will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30, while the New Year’s Test will be held at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 4-8. These fixtures are expected to draw huge crowds and be highlights of the series.

Gabba’s Future Uncertain

The redevelopment of the Gabba ahead of the 2032 Olympics raises questions about its future as a Test ground. With no Test scheduled 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.

Seven-Year Scheduling Plan

The 2025-26 Ashes dates align with Australian Cricket’s recently announced seven-year scheduling plan. This plan aims to create greater certainty around fixturing and boost cricket-related events in partnership with governments and tourism departments.

Fan Excitement and Travel Plans

The announcement of the Ashes dates is expected to generate significant excitement among fans around the world. Cricket Australia is encouraging fans to register for priority access to tickets and to book their travel plans early.

Western Australia Welcomes Ashes

The Western Australian government is excited to host the opening Test match at Perth Stadium. Rita Saffioti, WA Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism, highlighted the opportunity for English cricket fans to escape the winter and enjoy a summer of cricket in Australia.

 

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

 

Overall, the 2025-26 Ashes series promises to be an exciting and highly anticipated event. With a mix of traditional and new venues, the series is set to captivate cricket fans around the world.