 "Australian captain Steve Smith, left, and England Captain Ben Stokes pose for a photo with the Waterford Crystal Ashes Trophy in Perth, Australia, Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, ahead of the first Ashes Test. AP")
Australia and England are set to add another chapter to their storied rivalry as the 2025-26 Ashes begins on Friday, November 21 with the first Test taking place at Perth’s Optus Stadium. Both sides would want to start the series with a win, but Australia certainly enter as favourites.
The hosts will be led by Steve Smith who fills in as the captain in the series opener for the injured Pat Cummins. Australian pace bowling line-up is also without Josh Hazlewood. This is the first time since 2022 that Australia will be playing a Test match at home without both Cummins and Hazlewood. Brendan Doggett will be making his debut in Perth alongside opener Jake Weatherald who is expected to solve the opening woes.
Amid the absence of some experienced players, the return of Cameron Green will be a big boost for Australia.
England, led by Ben Stokes , will be out to win their first Test in Australia since the 2010-11 Ashes. Across the last three away Ashes series, England have lost 13 games, and their best result has been two draws.
Stokes has a full-strength English side at his disposal with pacers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood gunning to go. The two quicks are set to play together for only the second time in their career.
Check out how you can watch the first Ashes Test between Australia and England in India.
When and where is the Australia vs England, 1st Ashes 2025-26 Test?
The Australia vs England, 1st Test of Ashes 2025-26 starts Friday, November 21 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Day’s play will begin 10:50 am local time and 7:50 am IST.
Where to watch the Australia vs England, 1st Ashes 2025-26 Test?
In India, fans can tune into Star Sports Network channels to watch the Ashes on TV while JioHotstar will live stream the Ashes 2025-26 for Indian fans.