The Ashes is never just another Test series. It is cricket’s longest-running feud, steeped in folklore, rivalry and the weight of history. For England, a tour of Australia has so often ended in bruises – both physical and psychological. From Mitchell Johnson’s moustachioed demolition in 2013–14 to the 4–0 defeat of 2017–18, and the relentless dominance of Cummins and company in 2021–22, the story has too often been one of hope crushed by Australian hostility.
Yet as Ben Stokes leads his men Down Under, there is a different mood about England. The bold, brash “Bazball” revolution has already rattled conventions, re-energised Test cricket and betting on cricket. A 2–2 draw with India at home this summer reinforced the belief that England, for all their flaws, are never out of the fight. Now comes the truest test – can this new England rattle Australia in their own backyard?
The selectors have just announced a touring squad, led once again by Ben Stokes, that is both familiar and fresh. Harry Brook, the young firebrand, has been elevated to vice-captain, signalling that he is more than just a dasher at No. 5, he is the heartbeat of England’s future. Joe Root remains the old master at No. 4, the calm amid the chaos. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett will continue their contrasting opening partnership – Crawley’s long levers and intent against Duckett’s compact, wristy defiance. Ollie Pope, demoted from vice-captain, now faces a battle for runs and relevance, especially with the precocious Jacob Bethell breathing down his neck. Behind the stumps, Jamie Smith is expected to don the gloves, offering England a fresh energy in the wicketkeeping role.
What really stands out, though, is the seam arsenal. England have rarely travelled to Australia with such raw pace. Jofra Archer, finally fit after years of setbacks, joins Mark Wood in a potential 95mph tag team. Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue and Matthew Potts round out a group that can all bowl fast, hostile spells. After years of being blunted on flat Australian pitches, England’s fast-bowling depth offers hope of genuine penetration. The spin department is less certain. Shoaib Bashir, recalled after injury, remains untested at this level, while Will Jacks is a wildcard option whose batting may be as important as his off-breaks.
Australia, in contrast, will field a side brimming with continuity. Pat Cummins, despite ongoing injury management, is expected to lead the attack with trademark precision. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood are old warriors who know every blade of grass on their home grounds, while Nathan Lyon still has the knack of bending matches in Australia’s favour with his endless overs of off-spin. Scott Boland lurks as the relentless understudy, waiting for a green-top to exploit.
With the bat, Australia still lean on the old guard. Steve Smith may no longer churn out the Bradmanesque returns of a few years ago, but his technique and appetite for big runs remain undimmed. Marnus Labuschagne is under pressure after a lean spell, but few players relish the Ashes stage more. Usman Khawaja, enjoying a late-career renaissance, is likely to open, and the whispers are growing louder about young Sam Konstas making his Ashes debut as his partner. Travis Head and Cameron Green offer muscle in the middle order, with Alex Carey behind the stumps. It is a side built for attrition and familiarity, but one that will not underestimate England’s intent.
Beyond the squads, the battle lines are drawn across iconic venues. Perth’s opening salvo, with its fierce bounce and fiery sun, has historically set the tone. A pink-ball Test under lights at Brisbane adds intrigue, before the more traditional contests in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. England have not won a Test in Australia since 2011. For Stokes, to turn the tide would be to etch his name alongside Botham and Brearley in Ashes folklore.
So how will it play out? England’s fearless cricket gives them a puncher’s chance. Root and Brook could yet torment the Australian attack, and Archer’s pace may spark memories of 2019 at Lord’s. But across five Tests in unforgiving conditions, home advantage and a battle-hardened core tilt the balance towards the hosts.
The heart says England might dare to dream, but the head says Australia’s depth and know-how will see them through. Expect England to land blows and perhaps even claim a famous win along the way, but not enough to wrestle back the urn.
Prediction: Australia to win 3-1, England snatching a consolation victory to prove that Bazball can travel, even if the Ashes stays in Australian hands.