Ashes 2025/26: Who could win first Test between Australia and England in Perth?

Overview

• The first Test of the Ashes 2025/26 between Australia and England is set to take place at the Optus Stadium in Perth from November 21 to 25
• Australia is set to miss the services of two of its premier fast bowlers in Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, which is a huge dent to their chances
• England, which is potentially playing its full-strength team, could be the favorite to take an early lead of 1-0 in the series in Perth

The first Test of the Ashes 2025/26 between Australia and England is set to take place at the Optus Stadium in Perth from November 21 to 25. Australia is set to miss the services of two of its premier fast bowlers in Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, which is a huge dent to their chances.

In Cummins's absence, Steve Smith is set to lead the side. England, which is potentially playing its full-strength team, could be the favorite to take an early lead of 1-0 in the series in Perth.

Also Read: Who'll lead Australia in Ashes 2025 in case of Pat Cummins missing out? George Bailey answers

The visiting side announced its probable set of players for the first Test, which will be finalized based on the playing conditions in Perth. Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, and Shoaib Bashir are announced to be in contention.

Will Australia lose in Perth in the Ashes 2025/26?

While England could choose a pacer or a spinner based on the playing conditions in Perth, Australia is unsure about its XI. While one would think the home side is the favorite to win, it's not the case in the current Australian side, which hasn't been at its best lately.

Also Check: “Australia are favourites, but we’re confident”: Mark Wood ahead of Ashes

Compared to England, their batting isn't as sound and seems to be reliant on Steve Smith. While they could post a huge challenge and potentially even beat the visiting side, the defending Ashes urn holders might not have what it takes to win the first match of the series on the paper.