The Ashes 2025-26 is on the horizon, and cricket enthusiasts are already buzzing with anticipation. But what if this series becomes the most unforgettable clash in cricket history? Let’s dive into what Guardian writers predict and explore the moments that could define this iconic battle.
What’s Everyone Most Excited About?
Ali Martin can’t wait for a full-throttle Ashes experience—packed stadiums, fierce competition, and none of the pandemic-induced dullness from four years ago. Imagine the roar of the crowd as every ball is contested with passion!
Mark Ramprakash dreams of England’s triumph through skill and adaptability, not the high-risk, flashy tactics of Bazball. Will strategy outshine spectacle this time?
Barney Ronay is nostalgic for a Jofra Archer vs. Steve Smith showdown on a fast pitch. It’s been six years since their last epic duel—could this be the rematch we’ve all been craving?
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Simon Burnton is thrilled about his first away Ashes, envisioning a sold-out Perth Stadium on day one, where the real action begins after the pre-series hype.
Andy Bull is eager to see England’s fastest bowling trio—Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Josh Tongue—battle Australia’s top batsmen. Who will come out on top?
Tanya Aldred cherishes the tradition of watching the Ashes on Christmas Day, with family and dog cozied up on the sofa for the MCG’s opening overs.
Martin Pegan predicts a middle-order showdown between Travis Head and Harry Brook. Will Brook prove himself as the most destructive batter in the game?
Emma John treasures every delivery Archer bowls, comparing his career to a fleeting yet brilliant Romantic poet—each moment is priceless.
Who Will Win, and What’s the Score?
Predictions are split, but here’s the breakdown:
- Ali Martin: England shines but Australia retains the urn, 2-2, thanks to Sydney rain.
- Mark Ramprakash: England wins 3-1.
- Barney Ronay: It all hinges on the first Test—3-1 to either side, or a 2-2 draw.
- Geoff Lemon: Australia prevails 3-1, but England grabs a win on a flat Adelaide deck.
- Simon Burnton: Playing it safe with a 2-2 prediction.
- Andy Bull: Ben Stokes leads England to a 3-2 victory.
- Tanya Aldred: A thrilling 2-2 draw, with Sydney rain stealing the show.
- Martin Pegan: Australia edges out 3-2, with both teams showcasing fragile batting.
- Emma John: Heart says England 3-2, but head says Australia 3-1.
What Could Shake Up the Series?
- Archer’s return could be game-changing, as he brings his signature heat.
- Harry Brook’s aggressive batting might shift momentum for England.
- Travis Head’s performance against Shoaib Bashir could be pivotal.
- England’s pace attack vs. Australia’s resilience—who will crack first?
- Ollie Pope’s potential breakout could surprise everyone.
- Joe Root’s form and Stokes’ tactical genius will be under the microscope.
What Moment Will Be Remembered in 50 Years?
- Ali Martin: Ian Botham and Ian Chappell burying the hatchet in front of 100,000 fans.
- Mark Ramprakash: Joe Root scoring a century to win the Ashes.
- Barney Ronay: A quirky Ben Duckett press conference stealing the spotlight.
- Geoff Lemon: Root’s first century in Australia—a turning point or a futile gesture?
- Simon Burnton: A heartbreaking injury to a key seamer.
- Andy Bull: Archer’s duels with Smith becoming Ashes legend.
- Tanya Aldred: Ben Stokes’ heroics, either bowling or batting, in a must-win moment.
- Martin Pegan: Stokes’ bold declaration denying Root a century.
- Emma John: Root and Stokes sharing an unforgettable embrace after a series-winning chase.
Who or What Will Be the Biggest Flop?
- Australia’s top order struggles, especially with Khawaja’s inconsistent form.
- Nathan Lyon’s minimal impact could overburden Australia’s pacers.
- England’s spin bowling remains a weak link.
- Zak Crawley’s risky driving or Labuschagne’s tentative leaves could cost dearly.
When It’s Over, What Will We Say?
From jokes about pulping predictions to declaring Stokes the greatest England captain, one thing’s certain: this Ashes will be unforgettable. But here’s the controversial part—will Bazball’s legacy be redefined, or will it crumble under pressure?
What do you think? Will England’s pace attack dominate, or will Australia’s experience prevail? Share your predictions and join the debate in the comments!
