The Ashes 2025-26 is the ongoing Test cricket series between Australia and England, with Australia already retaining the urn after a dominant start. As of January 6, 2026, the fifth and final Test is underway at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This SEO-friendly guide covers the latest series status, key players like Steve Smith and Cameron Green, and a comprehensive England vs Australia cricket rivalry timeline.
Ashes 2025-26 Series Status & Schedule
The series, hosted in Australia from November 2025 to January 2026, features five Tests. Australia leads 3-1, having retained the Ashes early.
- 1st Test: Perth (Nov 21-22, 2025) – Australia won by 8 wickets (shortest Ashes Test in years)
- 2nd Test (Day/Night): Brisbane (Dec 4-8) – Australia won
- 3rd Test: Adelaide (Dec 16-21) – Australia won by 82 runs
- 4th Test (Boxing Day): Melbourne (Dec 26-30) – England won by 4 wickets
- 5th Test: Sydney (Jan 4-8, 2026) – Ongoing. England posted 384 (Joe Root 160). Australia trailing but fighting back.
Highlights include quick finishes, Travis Head’s aggression, and Joe Root’s brilliance.
Steve Smith in Ashes 2025-26
Steve Smith, Australia’s stand-in captain (due to injury absences), has had a quieter series by his standards, with around 136 runs in the first three Tests. At 36, he’s dismissed retirement talks, saying he’s taking it “series by series” and enjoying mentoring younger players. Smith retired from ODIs in 2025 but remains committed to Tests, potentially eyeing the 2027-28 Ashes in England.
Cameron Green in Ashes 2025-26
All-rounder Cameron Green returned from back surgery that sidelined him for much of 2024-25. He’s struggled for form, with low scores across the series, leading to questions about his spot (especially for the Sydney Test). Despite glimpses of potential at No. 4 and with the ball, inconsistency has frustrated fans and selectors.
England vs Australia Cricket Rivalry Timeline: The Ashes History
The Ashes is cricket’s oldest and fiercest rivalry, originating in 1882 after Australia’s shock win at The Oval. A satirical obituary declared English cricket “dead,” with its ashes to be taken to Australia – hence the name.
Key milestones:
- 1882: First “Ashes” reference after England’s home loss.
- 1882-83: England “regains” the ashes; urn presented to captain Ivo Bligh.
- 1891-92: Australia wins first series.
- 1932-33: Controversial Bodyline series – England uses aggressive tactics against Don Bradman; diplomatic tensions rise.
- Post-WWII: Australia’s dominance with Bradman (record 974 runs in 1930).
- 1981: “Botham’s Ashes” – Ian Botham inspires England comeback.
- 2005: England ends 18-year drought.
- 2010-11: England’s last away win (3-1).
- Recent: Australia retains in 2021-22 (4-0) and 2023 (2-2 draw); now leading 2025-26.
Overall: 73 series played; Australia 34 wins, England 32, 7 draws. Australia holds the urn.
The Ashes 2025-26 has delivered drama, from quick collapses to fightbacks. With the series alive in Sydney, watch for potential farewells (e.g., Usman Khawaja) and emerging stars. For live scores, check ESPNcricinfo or Cricket Australia. Who will lift the urn replica? Stay tuned!
