Ashes 2025-26: Expert Predictions for the Iconic Series
The Guardian's cricket writers have revealed their highly anticipated predictions for the 2025-26 Ashes series, outlining everything from potential winners to defining moments in what promises to be a gripping contest between England and Australia. After the pandemic-affected series four years ago, anticipation is building for a full-blooded Ashes tour with both sets of supporters creating an electric atmosphere in the stands.
What to Expect From the Ashes Contest
The writers expressed particular excitement about several key aspects of the upcoming series. Ali Martin highlighted the return of a proper Ashes atmosphere with both English and Australian fans filling the grounds, while Mark Ramprakash hopes to see talented, adaptable cricketers triumph rather than what he describes as the reckless bravado of Bazball.
Several writers singled out specific player matchups they're eagerly anticipating. Barney Ronay expressed particular excitement about Jofra Archer bowling to Steve Smith on a pacy deck, noting they've waited six years to see this contest properly renewed. Geoff Lemon hopes England will finally have their fastest bowlers fit and available, especially with the series beginning on Australia's fastest track at Perth.
Andy Bull is looking forward to watching Mark Wood, Archer and Josh Tongue - potentially the quickest group of bowlers England have ever sent on an Ashes tour - square up to Australia's batting lineup including Smith, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head.
Series Outcome Predictions
The predictions for series winner and scoreline reveal divided opinions among the experts. Ali Martin foresees England enjoying their best tour for 15 years only for Australia to retain the urn at 2-2 courtesy of rain in Sydney. Mark Ramprakash is more optimistic about England's chances, predicting a 3-1 victory for the visitors.
Barney Ronay believes the outcome largely depends on who wins the first Test, suggesting possibilities of 3-1 to either side or a 2-2 draw. Geoff Lemon predicts England might grab an early victory but Australia will ultimately prevail 3-1 through superior bowling quality, with Sydney potentially affected by rain.
Andy Bull backs England to win by one Test, noting that Ben Stokes has been thinking about this series for two years and has proven ability to achieve what he sets his mind to. Tanya Aldred predicts a 2-2 thriller with the Sydney Test potentially petering out into a rain-affected draw.
Potential Game Changers
Several players and factors are identified as potential series-shakers. Ali Martin believes Archer, who has been building cautiously toward this tour, could bring the heat now that what he calls the training wheels are off. Mark Ramprakash points to Harry Brook coming in at five as someone who can grab momentum for England with his aggressive stroke play.
Andy Bull highlights multiple factors including Archer's bounce from back-of-a-length, Brook's batting, Stokes' innovative field placements, and what he describes as Australia's odd insistence on taking Bazball as a national slight.
The performance of the pink ball in the second Test at the Gabba is also noted as potentially decisive, with Emma John suggesting whoever loses the toss there might face a tough challenge.
Memorable Moments and Potential Flops
The writers envisioned various scenarios that could become iconic Ashes moments. Ali Martin humorously suggested a reconciliation between Ian Botham and Ian Chappell at the MCG on Boxing Day. Mark Ramprakash hopes to see Joe Root score the runs to win the Ashes while also recording his first century in Australia.
Several predictions centered around Root finally scoring that elusive Australian century on his fourth visit, though Geoff Lemon noted it would either be remembered as a turning point or a grand gesture of futility depending on the series outcome.
Regarding potential disappointments, concerns were raised about Australia's top-order batting issues, particularly the failure to establish a proactive partner for Usman Khawaja. Mark Ramprakash predicted minimal impact from Nathan Lyon, potentially forcing Australia to over-bowl their pacemen.
Both teams were noted to have obvious weaknesses - for Australia it's their opening batsmen, while for England it's their spin bowling according to Andy Bull. Questions were also raised about whether England's top order can always rely on Root and Brook to rescue them if their gung-ho tendencies backfire.
When the series concludes, the writers anticipate various reflections, from recognition of Stokes as the best ever England captain to perhaps the emergence of what might be called Brookball. Whatever the outcome, this Ashes series promises to deliver compelling cricket and unforgettable moments between these historic rivals.
