Australian star batter Steve Smith has shared his excitement and perspective ahead of the highly anticipated 2025–26 Ashes series, set to begin in November in Australia. Speaking to Sky Sports Cricket, Smith praised England’s recent form while acknowledging the unique challenges they will face on Australian soil.
Reflecting on England’s performances in their recent series against India, Smith said, “I’ve watched a lot of the series against India and I think it was one of the best Test series I’ve seen for a long time. The cricket that was played by both teams was outstanding. So, I think England have a good side at the moment. They’re obviously playing a really aggressive brand of cricket, and I think coming down to Australia, particularly for their batters, it’s going to be a big challenge.”
Smith pointed to the difficult batting conditions in Australia in recent years, coupled with the home side’s world-class bowling attack, as a significant test for the visiting team. “I think the wickets in the last three or four years have been really tricky. We’ve obviously got a very experienced bowling lineup with guys that have played for a long period of time and been extremely successful. So I’m looking forward to the summer,” he added.
The 36-year-old also highlighted the return of full Ashes crowds as a major factor that will boost the series’ intensity. The last Ashes in Australia, during the Covid-19 pandemic, saw restricted travel and reduced atmosphere due to the absence of England’s famed Barmy Army supporters. “I know that last Ashes was during Covid-19 and the Barmy Army and stuff couldn’t come down. So the atmosphere is going to be entirely different. We love playing in front of big crowds and hostile crowds on both sides. So it’s going to be good fun,” Smith said.
With both sides entering the series with strong squads and plenty of confidence, the 2025–26 Ashes promises to deliver high-quality cricket, fierce competition, and electric atmospheres at iconic Australian venues.
'It's August! At Least Let Us Land': Stuart Broad Fires Humorous Reply To Glenn McGrath's Bold '5-0' Ashes Prediction
Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad took to social media with a lighthearted response to Australian legend Glenn McGrath’s bold Ashes prediction. Posting on X, Broad wrote, “It’s August!! At least let us land Glenn!” in reaction to McGrath forecasting a dominant 5-0 win for Australia in the upcoming Ashes series.
The latest chapter in the long-running England–Australia cricket banter began when McGrath, in an interview, admitted it was unusual for him to make predictions but couldn’t see past a clean sweep for Australia. “It’s very rare for me to make a prediction, isn't it? And I can’t make a different one: 5-0,” said the former pace great, backing his country to dominate the series.
The 2025–26 Ashes is set to get underway in November in Australia, but McGrath’s early call has already stirred friendly rivalry between the cricketing nations. Broad, known for his sharp wit both on and off the field, used humour to remind McGrath that the series is still months away, adding to the build-up and excitement among fans.
The exchange is another reminder of how the Ashes rivalry thrives not only on the pitch but also in the war of words that precedes it, ensuring cricket fans have plenty to talk about long before the first ball is bowled.
