ashThe most iconic rivalry in Test cricket continues to capture the imagination of fans as the 2025-26 edition draws closer. With the first Test starting in Perth on November 21, the cricket world is already abuzz with debates, predictions and nostalgia. From memorable battles to individual brilliance, the Ashes has produced some of the greatest moments in cricket history, and with another chapter opening, the game’s legends are once again remembering the greatest players to grace this prestigious competition in the modern era.
Stuart Broad and Ricky Ponting name combined Ashes XI of the 21st century
Adding to the pre-series excitement, former England fast bowler stuart broad and australian great ricky ponting have collaborated to select their combined Ashes XI for the 21st century. The duo’s selection reflects the blend of unrivaled batting dominance, all-round talent and match-winning bowling firepower that has shaped Ashes cricket over the last two decades.
Matthew Hayden- Opener (Australia)
One of the most influential opening batsmen of his era, Hayden terrorized bowling attacks with his strength, footwork and fearless strokeplay. His performances in Ashes cricket, especially in Australia, laid the foundation for many series wins. His ability to blunt the new ball and accelerate later on made him an automatic selection.
Alastair Cook- Opener (England)
One of England’s best opening batsmen, Cook was the definition of flexibility and patience. His famous Ashes series score of 766 runs in 2010–11 remains one of the greatest performances by any visiting opening batsman in Australia. His unmatched consistency and brilliant innings make him the ideal foil for Hayden.
Ricky Ponting – No. 3 (Australia)
One of the most successful captains and most prolific No. 3 batsman in history, Ponting dominated the bowlers with his pull shot, aggression and mental toughness. His leadership and ability to change the tempo of a match made him a modern Ashes legend, scoring over 2,500 runs against England.
Joe Root – No. 4 (England)
Root is England’s all-time leading run-gainer and the most technically complete batsman of the 21st century, with few who can match his elegance and consistency. He has carried England’s batting for years and remains the backbone of their Ashes hopes. His adaptability and long presence at the crease makes him indispensable. Fans are expecting a lot from the former English captain as his record on Australian soil is not impressive.
Steve Smith – No. 5 (Australia)
Smith’s Ashes record is nothing short of phenomenal. With several series-defining centuries and uncanny consistency, he has troubled England more than anyone since Don Bradman. His unconventional technique but extraordinary hand-eye coordination makes him one of the greatest Ashes batsmen of all time.
Ben Stokes – all-rounder (England)
A generational match-winner, Stokes has produced some of the most iconic Ashes moments – none bigger than the Headingley miracle in 2019. His all-round ability, leadership, fighting spirit and knack of turning impossible situations into wins make him an automatic selection in any Ashes XI. The upcoming Ashes will be one of the biggest tests of his captaincy.
Adam Gilchrist-Wicketkeeper (Australia)
Gilchrist revolutionized the role of wicketkeeper-batsman with his fearless, game-changing batting at number 7. His ability to change pace in a single session and his safe hands behind the stumps made him a great weapon for Australia. Few keepers have impacted Ashes competitions like the South Australian superstar.
Shane Warne – Leg Spinner (Australia)
Warne’s battles in the Ashes, the greatest leg spinner the game has ever seen, are legends. From the legacy of the ‘Ball of the Century’ to countless match-winning spells, Warne mesmerized batsmen with his drift, dip and turn. His big-moment ability makes him the heart of the XI.
Pat Cummins- Captain and fast bowler (Australia)
Cummins has been Australia’s go-to fast bowler due to his relentless accuracy, bounce and big-match flair. As captain, he led Australia to retain the Ashes in 2023. His fitness, discipline and ability to take wickets in different conditions makes him the modern leader of the Dream XI.
Stuart Broad – fast bowler (England)
Broad, the second highest wicket-taker in the Ashes after Warne, has bowled unforgettable spells, especially against Australia. His 8/15 at Trent Bridge in 2015 and his repeated dominance over the top-order batsmen demonstrated his talent. His record in Ashes competitions makes him an automatic choice.
Glenn McGrath – fast bowler (Australia)
McGrath’s accuracy, seam movement and tireless discipline earned him legendary status in the Battle of the Ashes. With 157 Ashes wickets – the most by any fast bowler – he was the man who troubled Australia’s English batsmen for a long time. His consistency at both ends of the pitch makes him an ideal strike bowler.
Questions are being raised on the absence of James Anderson
However, one glaring omission has sparked widespread debate – the absence of England’s greatest fast bowler, james andersonAnderson’s numbers are unmatched among fast bowlers in the 21st century:
- Most Test wickets by a fast bowler: 704
- Most Test matches played by a fast bowler: 188
- First bowler to take 1,000 first-class wickets in the 21st century
- Oldest bowler to take 5 wickets and 10 wickets in test
Over the course of two decades, Anderson displayed extraordinary skill, mastery of the swing and remarkable longevity—qualities that have made him one of the most influential figures in Test cricket. Although he has now retired, he remains an era-defining bowler whose Ashes contributions included many unforgettable spells.
Despite his superior numbers and consistency, his omission from the United XI has naturally sparked conversation among fans and experts. Many believe that Anderson’s record should have led to his automatic selection.
Also read: Australia or England? James Anderson picks his favorite players for Ashes 2025-26