England's Ashes campaign is already on the ropes after a spectacular and swift collapse in the opening Test, setting up a must-win day-night encounter at Brisbane's Gabba this week.
Perth Debacle Sets Stage for Gabba Challenge
Ben Stokes's side arrived in Australia with high hopes, but they were dismantled in a chaotic match in Perth that lasted just two days. Despite being in a commanding position at lunch on the second day, England suffered a dramatic loss of momentum, allowing Australia to romp to an eight-wicket victory.
The series now moves to Brisbane for a pivotal second Test under lights. The history books make grim reading for England fans: Australia have won 13 of their 14 day-night Tests, while England have lost five of their seven, winning only one. A defeat at the Gabba, where England have only won four times in 22 attempts, would leave the tourists' hopes of reclaiming the urn in a dire state with three Tests remaining.
Team News: Wood Out, Australia Unchanged
England will be forced into at least one change for the crucial fixture. Speedster Mark Wood is ruled out due to injury, with Josh Tongue the likely replacement, although Matthew Potts is also in contention.
Australia, meanwhile, have named an unchanged squad, still missing pace duo Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Steve Smith continues to captain the side, and there is speculation that Travis Head, following his stunning century in Perth, could be promoted to open the batting.
Full Ashes 2025/26 Schedule and UK Viewing Guide
For fans in the UK, following the action will require late nights and early mornings. The day-night Test in Brisbane begins at 4.30am UK time on December 4. The full schedule is as follows:
- Second Test – The Gabba, Brisbane: Starts December 4. UK start time: 4.30am (day/night).
- Third Test – Adelaide Oval: Starts December 17. UK start time: 12am.
- Fourth Test – MCG, Melbourne: Starts December 25. UK start time: 11.30pm.
- Fifth Test – SCG, Sydney: Starts January 3. UK start time: 11.30pm.
TNT Sports holds the exclusive UK television rights for the series, broadcasting via its channel and streaming service Discovery+. For radio coverage, the BBC's Test Match Special will provide ball-by-ball commentary.
The pressure is immense on England as they walk into one of cricket's most formidable fortresses. Their ability to adapt to the pink ball under lights at the Gabba will likely define the rest of their Ashes journey.
