Cricket Australia (CA) has officially announced the schedule for the highly anticipated 2025-26 Ashes series. In a significant shift, Brisbane’s Gabba will host the second Test under lights from December 4-8, following the series opener at Perth’s Optus Stadium from November 21-25. The Adelaide Oval will then take center stage for the third Test from December 17-21, as part of a new arrangement to host the pre-Christmas Test over the next seven years. The series will proceed with the traditional Boxing Day Test at Melbourne’s MCG from December 26-30, concluding with the fifth Test at Sydney’s SCG from January 4-8.
Changes to the Ashes Rota
The updated schedule marks a departure from the traditional Ashes rotation. Historically, the Gabba has been the venue for the first Test since 1982-83, with Perth now taking up the mantle for the 2025-26 series. The decision to move the day-night Test to Brisbane comes amid changes aimed at enhancing the tourism appeal of marquee games, with Adelaide now securing the holiday slot in December.
Adelaide has been a frequent host for day-night Test matches, having held the first-ever pink-ball Test in 2015 and the two previous Ashes day-night Tests in 2017-18 and 2021-22. However, the switch to a day game this time will allow Adelaide to capitalize on its status as a popular destination during the holiday season.
The Gabba’s Future in Question
The future of Test cricket at the Gabba remains uncertain, with potential redevelopment plans ahead of the 2032 Olympics casting doubt on its continued use. Next year’s Ashes Test could be the last at the stadium, as there is no Test cricket scheduled there for the 2026-27 season or beyond, and redevelopment could make it unusable by 2030.
Criticism and Concerns Over Pink-Ball Usage
There has been some backlash against CA’s decision to alter the traditional Ashes schedule. Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson is among those who believe that the Gabba should have retained its spot as the opening venue. On the other hand, the Australian team is comfortable with starting the series in Perth, where they have maintained an impressive record in recent seasons.
However, the use of the pink ball at the Gabba has sparked some concerns. Australian bowlers have expressed that the conditions at the Adelaide Oval are better suited for pink-ball cricket, whereas the ball has tended to soften quickly on the Gabba’s pitch, sometimes causing the game to stagnate.
Complete Ashes 2025-26 Schedule
- 1st Test: Perth, November 21-25
- 2nd Test (Day-Night): Brisbane, December 4-8
- 3rd Test: Adelaide, December 17-21
- 4th Test (Boxing Day): Melbourne, December 26-30
- 5th Test: Sydney, January 4-8
With a restructured itinerary and the potential end of an era at the Gabba, the 2025-26 Ashes series promises to be both historic and closely contested.
