The iconic Ashes rivalry is back as Australia and England prepare to face off in the opening match of the 2025-26 series at the Optus Stadium in Perth., The first Test, starting on November 21, promises to be a fiery contest under bright Western Australian skies. Known for its pace-friendly conditions and electric atmosphere, Perth is set to host an exciting start to cricket’s oldest and most intense Test series.
The Ashes, with a history spanning over a century, always exudes grandeur, but the 2025 edition seems even more important as both teams aim to achieve early dominance. Reigning champions Australia have fielded a strong and balanced squad with a mix of experienced campaigners and rising stars who are ready to face the challenge of England on home soil.
Australia announces playing XI for first Ashes Test
Australia’s final eleven for Perth Test under the leadership of captain steve smith Involved Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Brendon Doggett and Scott Boland.
This side highlights the depth in both batting and bowling. The top order hinges on the consistency of Khawaja and the temperament of Weatherold, who will be making his Ashes debut. Labuschagne and Smith will handle the innings, while Head and Green will bring attacking intent in the middle order. Carey’s wicketkeeping and lower-order runs are important in balancing the lineup.
The bowling attack offers pace, bounce and variety suited to the Perth surface. Starc’s left-arm pace, Boland’s accuracy and Doggett’s pace provide a powerful combination, while Lyon’s spin control adds variety. With this attack, Australia are well equipped to take advantage of the fast and bouncy track at Optus Oval.
Optus Oval pitch report for Ashes opener
Often described as one of the fastest surfaces in world cricket, the Optus Oval wicket is expected to have lively bounce and consistent pace early on. The fresh grass laid before the match suggests that fast bowlers like Starc and Boland will enjoy early movement, especially in the morning session when the wind blows from the south-west. However, once the ball loses its hardness batsmen can take advantage of this, making timing off the off-side advantageous.
As the game progresses, the pitch is likely to dry out in the scorching Perth sun, bringing Lyon’s off-spin into play from the fourth day onwards. Historically, the cracks on Perth grounds have widened during prolonged heat, making variable bounce a significant factor towards the end of the match. With clear conditions and a hard surface, the first Test promises to be a true contest that reflects the pace, grit and accuracy that Ashes cricket in Australia is known for.
Perth weather forecast for the first test
Perth’s Mediterranean climate often plays a decisive role in early season cricket. The five-day forecast suggests balanced conditions that could test both the batting and bowling units through the ups and downs of the season.
- Friday, November 21: The opening day will be mostly sunny with temperatures reaching 28°C and a light southerly wind at 19 km/h. With low humidity and minimal cloud cover, batting should be favorable initially, although late swing may emerge as the ball gets older in bright afternoon skies.
- Saturday, November 22: Slightly cooler conditions on the second day at 25°C with north-westerly wind at 22 km/h. Constant sunlight and dryness will help keep the pitch surface firm, allowing stroke play through the line.
- Sunday, November 23: There is a 60% chance of morning rain followed by clear sky on the third day. Strong south-westerly winds (28 km/h) caused the temperature to drop to 22 °C, facilitating seam and swing bowling in the first session.
- Monday, November 24: Intermittent rain may greet the players early, but clear rain will dominate later in the day. With a high of 21°C and a west wind of around 24 km/h, overcast conditions could make batting a bit challenging if overcast.
- Tuesday, November 25: The final day looks pleasant and cool at 22°C, light south-westerly winds and only a 1% chance of rain. By then the pitch should have slowed down, which will aid spin and reverse swing as bowlers take advantage of footprints and rough patches.
Also read: Mark Wood declared fit, England announce 12-man squad for Perth Test for Ashes 2025-26
