England announced their Playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test as they made a couple of changes to the side that was beaten in Adelaide. In an announcement made on Wednesday (Dec 24), England dropped Ollie Pope while Jofra Archer was ruled out of the remainder of the series. The visitors have roped in Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson, and despite a controversial viral video circulating, Ben Duckett has retained his place in the Playing XI.<h2>England announce Playing XI</h2>Having already lost the Ashes 3-0, England made two changes to the Playing XI that lost to Australia on Sunday. With Pope failing to impress, the English team management has decided to axe Pope, with Bethell getting an opportunity. The English batter has been in poor form and is yet to score a half-century against Australia across 16 innings and has been dropped for the second consecutive Ashes tour.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;He captained England at the end of their home series against India earlier this year in Stokes' absence but was replaced as vice-captain before this series and has managed just 125 runs in his six innings, at an average of 20.83.&nbsp;On the other hand, Atkinson is drafted into the Playing XI at the expense of Archer, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the series. He will be returning to the UK next week and will be assessed in order to be fit for the T20 World Cup, which starts in India and Sri Lanka on February 7. Archer had a scan in Melbourne earlier this week, having complained about side strain after the Brisbane Test.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>England Playing XI for Boxing Day Test</h2>Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (capt), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Josh Tongue.

In an announcement, England dropped Ollie Pope while Jofra Archer was ruled out of the remainder of the series. The visitors have roped in Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson, and despite a controversial viral video circulating, Ben Duckett has retained his place in the Playing XI.

England announced their Playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test as they made a couple of changes to the side that was beaten in Adelaide. In an announcement made on Wednesday (Dec 24), England dropped Ollie Pope while Jofra Archer was ruled out of the remainder of the series. The visitors have roped in Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson, and despite a controversial viral video circulating, Ben Duckett has retained his place in the Playing XI. England announce Playing XI Having already lost the Ashes 3-0, England made two changes to the Playing XI that lost to Australia on Sunday. With Pope failing to impress, the English team management has decided to axe Pope, with Bethell getting an opportunity. The English batter has been in poor form and is yet to score a half-century against Australia across 16 innings and has been dropped for the second consecutive Ashes tour. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes He captained England at the end of their home series against India earlier this year in Stokes' absence but was replaced as vice-captain before this series and has managed just 125 runs in his six innings, at an average of 20.83. On the other hand, Atkinson is drafted into the Playing XI at the expense of Archer, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the series. He will be returning to the UK next week and will be assessed in order to be fit for the T20 World Cup, which starts in India and Sri Lanka on February 7. Archer had a scan in Melbourne earlier this week, having complained about side strain after the Brisbane Test. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes England Playing XI for Boxing Day Test Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (capt), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Josh Tongue.

In an announcement, England dropped Ollie Pope while Jofra Archer was ruled out of the remainder of the series. The visitors have roped in Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson, and despite a controversial viral video circulating, Ben Duckett has retained his place in the Playing XI.

Ashes: England make two changes for Boxing Day Test; Ollie Pope dropped

England's Ashes performance and preparation for the Tests has opened a can of worms for them with their managing director Robert Key now vowing to investigate the four-day break in Noosa by the team. England had travelled to coastal Queensland town in Australia for four days before the third Test in Adelaide. The idea, as told by coach Brendon McCullum, was to make the team feel fresh during the do-or-die Test. England, however, lost the match by 82 runs as Australia took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.<h2>Key vows to investigate England's drinking</h2>Speaking about the break after England's loss in Adelaide, Key said: "If there's things where people are saying that our players went out and drank excessively then of course we'll be looking into that."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bad-news-for-australia-as-pat-cummins-out-of-remainder-of-ashes-doubtful-for-2026-t20-world-cup-1766465834219">Pat Cummins out of remainder of Ashes, doubtful for T20 World Cup</a>"I've read what's been written in the last day or so, and if it goes into where they're drinking lots and it's a stag do, all that type of stuff, that's completely unacceptable. I'm not a drinker. I think a drinking culture doesn't help anyone in any stretch whatsoever."<h2>McCullum-Stokes in firing line</h2>After the series loss, England might be making some personnel changes in the set-up which may very well start with McCullum and Ben Stokes. Ever since England was handed to McCullum as coach and Stokes as captain in 2022, they right away started going after targets, playing belligerent cricket which sometimes bordered to reckless. The duo, nonetheless, had a promising start to their respective roles before fading away gradually. Overall, McCullum-Stokes have won 25 Tests and lost 17 while drawing only two. The results started going off the mark since 2024 and England have lost more (13) matches since than they have won (12).&nbsp;

The idea, as told by coach Brendon McCullum, was to make the team feel fresh during the do-or-die Test. England, however, lost the match by 82 runs as Australia took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

England's Ashes performance and preparation for the Tests has opened a can of worms for them with their managing director Robert Key now vowing to investigate the four-day break in Noosa by the team. England had travelled to coastal Queensland town in Australia for four days before the third Test in Adelaide. The idea, as told by coach Brendon McCullum, was to make the team feel fresh during the do-or-die Test. England, however, lost the match by 82 runs as Australia took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series. Key vows to investigate England's drinking Speaking about the break after England's loss in Adelaide, Key said: "If there's things where people are saying that our players went out and drank excessively then of course we'll be looking into that." Also Read - Pat Cummins out of remainder of Ashes, doubtful for T20 World Cup "I've read what's been written in the last day or so, and if it goes into where they're drinking lots and it's a stag do, all that type of stuff, that's completely unacceptable. I'm not a drinker. I think a drinking culture doesn't help anyone in any stretch whatsoever." McCullum-Stokes in firing line After the series loss, England might be making some personnel changes in the set-up which may very well start with McCullum and Ben Stokes. Ever since England was handed to McCullum as coach and Stokes as captain in 2022, they right away started going after targets, playing belligerent cricket which sometimes bordered to reckless. The duo, nonetheless, had a promising start to their respective roles before fading away gradually. Overall, McCullum-Stokes have won 25 Tests and lost 17 while drawing only two. The results started going off the mark since 2024 and England have lost more (13) matches since than they have won (12).

The idea, as told by coach Brendon McCullum, was to make the team feel fresh during the do-or-die Test. England, however, lost the match by 82 runs as Australia took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

England managing director Robert Key vows to investigate Noosa break drinking

The Ashes 2025-26 loss has put not only Bazball under most intense scrutiny till date but also has raised a question on the future of Brendon McCullum has England coach as well. The Three Lions are 0-3 down the five-Test series with two more matches left which can not impact the series result even if England win. Ben Stokes-led side lost the first two Tests by eight wickets in Perth and Brisbane, respectively before losing the do-or-die Adelaide Test by 82 runs.<h2>McCullum speaks on future as England coach</h2>While the Ashes result has indeed put McCullum in hot waters, the England coach wants to continue but acknowledges that the decision is not his to make.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-broad-still-hung-up-on-current-australia-team-being-worst-in-15-years-1766398333520">Ashes: Broad still hung up on 'current Australia team being worst in 15 years'</a>Asked after Adelaide loss if he believes he will be in charge for England's home summer next year, McCullum said: "I don't know. It's not really up to me, is it?"I'll just keep trying to do the job, trying to learn the lessons I haven't quite got right here and try to make some adjustments. Those questions are for someone else, not for me," he added.<h2>How has England performed under McCullum?</h2>Ever since England was handed to McCullum as coach and Stokes as captain in 2022, they right away started going after target, playing belligerent cricket which sometimes bordered to reckless. The duo, nonetheless, had a promising start to their respective roles before fading away gradually. Overall, McCullum-Stokes have won 25 Tests and lost 17 while drawing only two. The results started going off the mark since 2024 and England have lost more (13) matches since than they have won (12). England have also not featured once in the World Test Championship (WTC) final and look uncertain for the the 2027 WTC final as well.

McCullum-Stokes have won 25 Tests and lost 17 while drawing only two. The results started going off the mark since 2024 and England have lost more (13) matches since than they have won (12). 

The Ashes 2025-26 loss has put not only Bazball under most intense scrutiny till date but also has raised a question on the future of Brendon McCullum has England coach as well. The Three Lions are 0-3 down the five-Test series with two more matches left which can not impact the series result even if England win. Ben Stokes-led side lost the first two Tests by eight wickets in Perth and Brisbane, respectively before losing the do-or-die Adelaide Test by 82 runs. McCullum speaks on future as England coach While the Ashes result has indeed put McCullum in hot waters, the England coach wants to continue but acknowledges that the decision is not his to make. Also Read - Ashes: Broad still hung up on 'current Australia team being worst in 15 years' Asked after Adelaide loss if he believes he will be in charge for England's home summer next year, McCullum said: "I don't know. It's not really up to me, is it? "I'll just keep trying to do the job, trying to learn the lessons I haven't quite got right here and try to make some adjustments. Those questions are for someone else, not for me," he added. How has England performed under McCullum? Ever since England was handed to McCullum as coach and Stokes as captain in 2022, they right away started going after target, playing belligerent cricket which sometimes bordered to reckless. The duo, nonetheless, had a promising start to their respective roles before fading away gradually. Overall, McCullum-Stokes have won 25 Tests and lost 17 while drawing only two. The results started going off the mark since 2024 and England have lost more (13) matches since than they have won (12). England have also not featured once in the World Test Championship (WTC) final and look uncertain for the the 2027 WTC final as well.

McCullum-Stokes have won 25 Tests and lost 17 while drawing only two. The results started going off the mark since 2024 and England have lost more (13) matches since than they have won (12).&nbsp;

'I don't know,' says McCullum about staying on as England coach in next summer

The ongoing five-Test Ashes between Australia and England has already been decided with two matches to spare. Hosts Australia are 3-0 up in the series following winning the third Test in Adelaide by 82 runs. The series has exposed England's Bazball badly with some personnel changes might be coming soon. Before the series though, former England pacer Stuart Broad had said that the current Australia team is worst in 15 years, since England last won the Ashes in 2010-11. The result, however, clearly shows otherwise but Broad has refused to take his statement back.<h2>Broad still believe current Australia team worst since 2010-11</h2>“Do I regret saying that? No. I did say Australia would have to play very badly and England would have to play very well. Australia haven't played very badly, and England haven't played very well,” Broad said on his For The Love of Cricket podcast after England lost the Ashes despite putting up a fight in Adelaide but it came too little too late. England had lost the first two Test by eight wickets in Perth and Brisbane, respectively.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-jhye-richardson-australia-lock-in-pat-cummins-replacement-for-boxing-day-test-1766389313491">Ashes: Australia lock in Pat Cummins' replacement for Boxing Day Test</a><h2>Ashes performance comparison</h2>Australia started the first Test without Pat Cummins, dropped Nathan Lyon for second match and Steve Smith pulled out of the third Test at the last minute. England, despite playing an injury-hit Australia, could not contain them, especially Travis Head who is the highest run-getter in the series - 379 in six innings at an average of 63 with two tons already.Aussie Alex Carey is the second on the list with 267 runs in four innings batted including a match-winning 106 in first innings in Adelaide to go with two fifties as well. For England Joe Root is the highest run-getter - 219 in six innings but that includes a highest of 138 not out as well.Among the bowlers, Mitchell Starc leads the chart with 22 wickets with two five-fors while Brydon Carse tops for England with 14 wickets in five innings.

England, despite playing an injury-hit Australia, could not contain them, especially Travis Head who is the highest run-getter in the series - 379 in six innings at an average of 63 with two tons already.

The ongoing five-Test Ashes between Australia and England has already been decided with two matches to spare. Hosts Australia are 3-0 up in the series following winning the third Test in Adelaide by 82 runs. The series has exposed England's Bazball badly with some personnel changes might be coming soon. Before the series though, former England pacer Stuart Broad had said that the current Australia team is worst in 15 years, since England last won the Ashes in 2010-11. The result, however, clearly shows otherwise but Broad has refused to take his statement back. Broad still believe current Australia team worst since 2010-11 “Do I regret saying that? No. I did say Australia would have to play very badly and England would have to play very well. Australia haven't played very badly, and England haven't played very well,” Broad said on his For The Love of Cricket podcast after England lost the Ashes despite putting up a fight in Adelaide but it came too little too late. England had lost the first two Test by eight wickets in Perth and Brisbane, respectively. Also Read - Ashes: Australia lock in Pat Cummins' replacement for Boxing Day Test Ashes performance comparison Australia started the first Test without Pat Cummins, dropped Nathan Lyon for second match and Steve Smith pulled out of the third Test at the last minute. England, despite playing an injury-hit Australia, could not contain them, especially Travis Head who is the highest run-getter in the series - 379 in six innings at an average of 63 with two tons already. Aussie Alex Carey is the second on the list with 267 runs in four innings batted including a match-winning 106 in first innings in Adelaide to go with two fifties as well. For England Joe Root is the highest run-getter - 219 in six innings but that includes a highest of 138 not out as well. Among the bowlers, Mitchell Starc leads the chart with 22 wickets with two five-fors while Brydon Carse tops for England with 14 wickets in five innings.

England, despite playing an injury-hit Australia, could not contain them, especially Travis Head who is the highest run-getter in the series - 379 in six innings at an average of 63 with two tons already.

Ashes 2025-26: Broad still hung up on 'current Australia team being worst in 15 years' despite England's loss

The Ashes is already over, with Australians winning it convincingly inside 11 days. Following the conclusion of the Adelaide Test, which Australia won by 82 runs and retained the urn, they maintained their 100% winning record thus far on the current World Test Championship (WTC) points table, winning six out of six matches. While the defending champions, South Africa, sit in the second place with three wins in four contested Tests, the three-time finalists, India, are reeling in the bottom half of the points table, with Pakistan ahead of them on better PCT.&nbsp;Since losing the WTC Final earlier in June, Australia whitewashed West Indies in the away series before taking down England in the three contested Ashes Tests thus far. Despite not having their veteran batter Steve Smith and Test great Josh Hazlewood in the concluded Test in Adelaide, the hosts romped the Poms to win back the Ashes.&nbsp; &nbsp;A crushing defeat at the hands of their oldest rivals pushed England further down on the WTC table, one spot below India in seventh position, with only Bangladesh and West Indies below them.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-dream-is-now-over-england-captain-ben-stokes-reacts-to-crushing-ashes-defeat-1766295553751">‘The dream is now over,’ England captain Ben Stokes reacts to crushing Ashes defeat</a> &nbsp;Team India, on the other hand, sits in the sixth spot, with four wins and as many losses in nine contested matches. While they managed to draw the away five-match series in England earlier (2-2), suffering a whitewash at home to South Africa (0-2) hurt their chances of climbing up the table and sealing the top two positions.&nbsp; &nbsp;Under the leadership of the newly-appointed Test captain, Shubman Gill, the Indian Test team has won just four matches thus far, including two against West Indies at home. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan, with just one win and a loss, is ahead of India on the WTC standings, with a better PCT of 50 compared to India’s 48.15. While Australia remains unbeaten thus far, South Africa’s PCT is 75, followed by Sri Lanka (66.67) and New Zealand (66.67).<h3>Here are the latest WTC standings after the just-concluded Ashes Test in Adelaide -</h3>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>POSITION</td><td>TEAM</td><td>PCT</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Australia</td><td>100</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>South Africa</td><td>75</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>66.67</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>66.67</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Pakistan</td><td>50</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>India</td><td>48.15</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>England</td><td>27.08</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Bangladesh&nbsp;</td><td>16.67</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>West Indies</td><td>4.76</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Since losing the WTC Final to South Africa in June, Australia hasn't lost a single Test in six outings thus far. 

The Ashes is already over, with Australians winning it convincingly inside 11 days. Following the conclusion of the Adelaide Test, which Australia won by 82 runs and retained the urn, they maintained their 100% winning record thus far on the current World Test Championship (WTC) points table, winning six out of six matches. While the defending champions, South Africa, sit in the second place with three wins in four contested Tests, the three-time finalists, India, are reeling in the bottom half of the points table, with Pakistan ahead of them on better PCT. Since losing the WTC Final earlier in June, Australia whitewashed West Indies in the away series before taking down England in the three contested Ashes Tests thus far. Despite not having their veteran batter Steve Smith and Test great Josh Hazlewood in the concluded Test in Adelaide, the hosts romped the Poms to win back the Ashes. A crushing defeat at the hands of their oldest rivals pushed England further down on the WTC table, one spot below India in seventh position, with only Bangladesh and West Indies below them. Also read | ‘The dream is now over,’ England captain Ben Stokes reacts to crushing Ashes defeat Team India, on the other hand, sits in the sixth spot, with four wins and as many losses in nine contested matches. While they managed to draw the away five-match series in England earlier (2-2), suffering a whitewash at home to South Africa (0-2) hurt their chances of climbing up the table and sealing the top two positions. Under the leadership of the newly-appointed Test captain, Shubman Gill, the Indian Test team has won just four matches thus far, including two against West Indies at home. Meanwhile, Pakistan, with just one win and a loss, is ahead of India on the WTC standings, with a better PCT of 50 compared to India’s 48.15. While Australia remains unbeaten thus far, South Africa’s PCT is 75, followed by Sri Lanka (66.67) and New Zealand (66.67). Here are the latest WTC standings after the just-concluded Ashes Test in Adelaide -

Since losing the WTC Final to South Africa in June, Australia hasn't lost a single Test in six outings thus far.&nbsp;

WTC Cycle 2025-27: Australia maintain 100% record; check where Team India sits on points table

England Test captain Ben Stokes said the dream of winning an Ashes Down Under is over after his team lost the third Test at the Adelaide Oval by 82 runs on Sunday morning. Needing over 200 runs with just four wickets remaining, England’s lower-order and tail did grind through the first session but failed to hold onto their wickets as the Aussies wrapped them up on 352 to win the Test and retain the Ashes. Stokes, who got out to a beauty off Nathan Lyon late on day four, admitted feeling disappointed with the result, adding that everyone is hurt and that it sucks to concede the Ashes inside 11 days.&nbsp;"That dream is now over, which is incredibly disappointing. Everyone is hurting and quite emotional about it. It hurt, it sucks, but we aint going to stop,” Stokes’ first reaction after England lost the third Test on day five at the Adelaide Oval.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-run-over-england-in-adelaide-test-to-retain-ashes-nathan-lyon-hamstring-1766289012188">Australia crush England, Bazball inside 11 days to retain Ashes</a> &nbsp;Although England showed the stomach for a fight late in their innings, Stokes feels that they were not as consistent in executing their plans the way the Australians were, pointing out the difference between the two teams.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Australia have just been able to execute things more consistently than us...we've shown it in passages. Thought we were on for another heist when Jamie and Will were going.&nbsp; &nbsp;Captain Stokes also lamented the opportunity to score big after restricting Australia to a modest first-inning total, further putting it down to his batters’ failed attempt at chasing the target the dressing room believed they could.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Losing the toss, bowling, keep Australia to under-par score, and not being able to respond with the bat when we had an opportunity to put a big score on the board...we were confident we had a good chance of chasing it down, it was a very good wicket. Losing those three wickets at the backend of yesterday set us back. That stuff I wanted to see, I've seen that this week. Think we can take a lot from this game. We've got so much more to play for,” he continued. &nbsp;The visitors, however, have plenty to play for in the remaining two matches, with avoiding a series whitewash at the top on their priority list.&nbsp;

While Australia won the Perth Test inside two days, they reigned supreme in the Pink-Ball Test at the Gabba in Brisbane before knocking England off in Adelaide to retain the Ashes.

England Test captain Ben Stokes said the dream of winning an Ashes Down Under is over after his team lost the third Test at the Adelaide Oval by 82 runs on Sunday morning. Needing over 200 runs with just four wickets remaining, England’s lower-order and tail did grind through the first session but failed to hold onto their wickets as the Aussies wrapped them up on 352 to win the Test and retain the Ashes. Stokes, who got out to a beauty off Nathan Lyon late on day four, admitted feeling disappointed with the result, adding that everyone is hurt and that it sucks to concede the Ashes inside 11 days. "That dream is now over, which is incredibly disappointing. Everyone is hurting and quite emotional about it. It hurt, it sucks, but we aint going to stop,” Stokes’ first reaction after England lost the third Test on day five at the Adelaide Oval. Also read | Australia crush England, Bazball inside 11 days to retain Ashes Although England showed the stomach for a fight late in their innings, Stokes feels that they were not as consistent in executing their plans the way the Australians were, pointing out the difference between the two teams. “Australia have just been able to execute things more consistently than us...we've shown it in passages. Thought we were on for another heist when Jamie and Will were going. Captain Stokes also lamented the opportunity to score big after restricting Australia to a modest first-inning total, further putting it down to his batters’ failed attempt at chasing the target the dressing room believed they could. “Losing the toss, bowling, keep Australia to under-par score, and not being able to respond with the bat when we had an opportunity to put a big score on the board...we were confident we had a good chance of chasing it down, it was a very good wicket. Losing those three wickets at the backend of yesterday set us back. That stuff I wanted to see, I've seen that this week. Think we can take a lot from this game. We've got so much more to play for,” he continued. The visitors, however, have plenty to play for in the remaining two matches, with avoiding a series whitewash at the top on their priority list.

While Australia won the Perth Test inside two days, they reigned supreme in the Pink-Ball Test at the Gabba in Brisbane before knocking England off in Adelaide to retain the Ashes.

‘The dream is now over,’ England captain Ben Stokes reacts to crushing Ashes defeat

The Ashes 2025 is over inside three Tests as Australia run over England in Adelaide to retain the urn. Needing four wickets to win the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, the Aussie bowlers did grind a bit in the first session but came back stronger in the second to clinch an 82-run win and seal the Ashes. Although Jamie Smith and Will Jacks showed grit during the first hour, a dismal shot (by Smith) off Mitchell Starc broke the stand, who later picked two more, including that of Jacks, to wrap England on 352 in their second innings.&nbsp;Australia took 11 days to win the home Ashes, crush the Bazball and retain the urn, something every Aussie player had been working on for the past two years. Starc, who did wonders with both bat and ball in the three contested matches thus far, admitted to feeling ‘bloody good’ about the win. &nbsp;“Feels bloody good. I’ve managed to work for it. It was a bit of a flat wicket, and they (England) played pretty well, but I think those are the ones you cherish a bit more when you have to work a bit harder, aren’t they? So yeah, another rousing win. It’s been a great atmosphere all week, all series so far,” Starc said after picking three of the four remaining wickets on the final day in Adelaide. &nbsp;However, all wasn’t nice and pleasing for the hosts as they lost Nathan Lyon to a suspected hamstring injury inside the first session. Lyon, who picked up three wickets in the final innings, including that of Harry Brook, captain Ben Stokes and opener Zak Crawley, all crucial ones, hobbled off the field after attempting to stop a boundary at fine leg. Although he remained on the sidelines, the quicks compensated for the loss, with Starc doing the most damage. &nbsp;The left-armer first picked up Smith, who played a horrendous shot before removing Jacks, caught excellently by Marnus Labuschagne in the second slip, to end England’s hopes.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">THERE IS NO WAY HE HAS DONE IT AGAIN! MARNUS LABUSCHAGNE TAKE A BOW!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayoftheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayoftheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/EkxdtkFsrg">pic.twitter.com/EkxdtkFsrg</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2002579464199233798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Test veteran then got the better of seamer Jofra Archer, who smashed a fifty in the first innings, to put England’s back against the wall before Scott Boland wrapped up the proceedings by dismissing Josh Tongue caught in the slip cordon.&nbsp;Watch the moment Australia retained the Ashes -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">THE moment! Australia retains the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> after a brilliant ending. <a href="https://t.co/ZfOi2uOAPh">pic.twitter.com/ZfOi2uOAPh</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2002587451403993269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the visitors failed to get going across three Tests despite handy performances from just a handful of players. Stokes was one of England’s better batters alongside Joe Root, with Archer and Brydon Carse impressing with the ball, although nothing was enough to keep themselves alive in this series. &nbsp;The fourth Test of this series begins at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Boxing Day (Dec 26), with Australia leading 3-0.

While the seamers enjoyed bowling on the final day, Australia suffered a blow with Nathan Lyon hobbling off the ground with a suspected hamstring injury inside the first session on day five. 

The Ashes 2025 is over inside three Tests as Australia run over England in Adelaide to retain the urn. Needing four wickets to win the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, the Aussie bowlers did grind a bit in the first session but came back stronger in the second to clinch an 82-run win and seal the Ashes. Although Jamie Smith and Will Jacks showed grit during the first hour, a dismal shot (by Smith) off Mitchell Starc broke the stand, who later picked two more, including that of Jacks, to wrap England on 352 in their second innings. Australia took 11 days to win the home Ashes, crush the Bazball and retain the urn, something every Aussie player had been working on for the past two years. Starc, who did wonders with both bat and ball in the three contested matches thus far, admitted to feeling ‘bloody good’ about the win. “Feels bloody good. I’ve managed to work for it. It was a bit of a flat wicket, and they (England) played pretty well, but I think those are the ones you cherish a bit more when you have to work a bit harder, aren’t they? So yeah, another rousing win. It’s been a great atmosphere all week, all series so far,” Starc said after picking three of the four remaining wickets on the final day in Adelaide. However, all wasn’t nice and pleasing for the hosts as they lost Nathan Lyon to a suspected hamstring injury inside the first session. Lyon, who picked up three wickets in the final innings, including that of Harry Brook, captain Ben Stokes and opener Zak Crawley, all crucial ones, hobbled off the field after attempting to stop a boundary at fine leg. Although he remained on the sidelines, the quicks compensated for the loss, with Starc doing the most damage. The left-armer first picked up Smith, who played a horrendous shot before removing Jacks, caught excellently by Marnus Labuschagne in the second slip, to end England’s hopes.

While the seamers enjoyed bowling on the final day, Australia suffered a blow with Nathan Lyon hobbling off the ground with a suspected hamstring injury inside the first session on day five.&nbsp;

Australia crush England, Bazball inside 11 days to retain Ashes

England captain Ben Stokes was seen gutted in the opening session of Day 3 of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide after he was dismissed by Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc. Playing at the Adelaide Oval, Stokes’s frustration was evident as England desperately tried to narrow down the first innings deposit. Ultimately, they fell short, trailing Australia by 85 runs at the end of the first innings. However, it was Stokes whose reaction made the headlines.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">OH MY WORD WHAT A SEED FROM MITCH STARC!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayoftheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayoftheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/1z4idDsklT">pic.twitter.com/1z4idDsklT</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2001816103069057091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Stokes showcases anger</h2>Playing in the morning session of Day 3, on the first ball of the 85th over, Stokes was castled by Starc, after the English batter was seen jumping and leaving the field in frustration. At the time of his dismissal, Stokes was on 83 and missed out on a ton. He, along with Jofra Archer, put together 106 runs for the ninth wicket, meaning England significantly reduced Australia’s first innings advantage.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Four overs after Stokes’s dismissal, Archer was also dismissed as England were bowled out for 286. Apart from Stokes and Archer, Harry Brook played a key role with a 45-run knock on Day 2.&nbsp;For Australia, both Scott Boland and captain Pat Cummins bagged three wickets each while Nathan Lyon bagged a brace on Day 2, which also saw him surpass Glenn McGrath for most Test wickets.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>What happened until lunch?</h2>Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne steered a nervy Australia to 17-1 at lunch and a 102-run lead Friday after Ben Stokes's gritty 83 gave England a slither of hope on day three of the third Ashes Test.&nbsp;Head was not out five and Labuschagne on four in Adelaide as the hosts aim to pile on a big total and put the five-match series out of England's reach.&nbsp;But they suffered a setback in a tense 20 minutes before lunch after England were all out for 286 in response to Australia's first innings of 371.&nbsp;Bryson Carse trapped Jake Weatherald lbw for one and he walked without reviewing after the umpire lifted his finger, although replays showed the ball was pitching outside leg stump.

Playing in the morning session of Day 3, on the first ball of the 85th over, Stokes was castled by Starc, after the English batter was seen jumping and leaving the field in frustration.

England captain Ben Stokes was seen gutted in the opening session of Day 3 of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide after he was dismissed by Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc. Playing at the Adelaide Oval, Stokes’s frustration was evident as England desperately tried to narrow down the first innings deposit. Ultimately, they fell short, trailing Australia by 85 runs at the end of the first innings. However, it was Stokes whose reaction made the headlines.

Playing in the morning session of Day 3, on the first ball of the 85th over, Stokes was castled by Starc, after the English batter was seen jumping and leaving the field in frustration.

Watch: Angry Ben Stokes jumps in frustration as Mitchell Starc castles English batter

Nathan Lyon has surpassed Glenn McGrath to move up the all-time Test wicket list. Here’s a look at the top 6 bowlers with the most Test wickets in cricket history.


Nathan Lyon has surpassed Glenn McGrath to move up the all-time Test wicket list. Here’s a look at the top 6 bowlers with the most Test wickets in cricket history.

6 bowlers with most Test wickets: Lyon surpasses McGrath to take THIS spot

Snicko errors were the talk of the day on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test on Thursday (Dec 18) as England fight for survival at the Adelaide Oval. Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2. The visitors trail Australia by 158 runs in the first innings as they steer to yet another defeat in the ongoing Ashes.<h2>Snicko takes centre stage</h2>With a host of decision getting influenced by technological errors, mainly due to snicko, the third Ashes Test has seen Australia on top. Alex Carey’s key decision to be given not out on Day 1 was followed by Jamie Smith’s wrongful dismissal as snicko was the talk of the day. First, Smith was given not out despite the ball carrying to slip fielder Usman Khawaja, where the batter appeared to have touched the ball with his gloves.&nbsp;Later, Smith was given caught behind despite there being a clear gap between bat and ball in the 46th over.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;On the cricketing side, England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45) early as they never got going. They were 71/4 at one stage before losing a series of wickets later as they were reduced to 168/8.At Stumps on Day 2, England were 213/8 with captain Ben Stokes unbeaten on 45 and Jofra Archer smashing an unbeaten 30 off 48 deliveries.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 371 runs with Mitchell Starc completing his fifty. He was dismissed for 54 as he added valuable runs down the order to help the Aussies get closer to a total near 400.

Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2 and now fight for survival. 

Snicko errors were the talk of the day on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test on Thursday (Dec 18) as England fight for survival at the Adelaide Oval. Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2. The visitors trail Australia by 158 runs in the first innings as they steer to yet another defeat in the ongoing Ashes. Snicko takes centre stage With a host of decision getting influenced by technological errors, mainly due to snicko, the third Ashes Test has seen Australia on top. Alex Carey’s key decision to be given not out on Day 1 was followed by Jamie Smith’s wrongful dismissal as snicko was the talk of the day. First, Smith was given not out despite the ball carrying to slip fielder Usman Khawaja, where the batter appeared to have touched the ball with his gloves. Later, Smith was given caught behind despite there being a clear gap between bat and ball in the 46th over. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes On the cricketing side, England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45) early as they never got going. They were 71/4 at one stage before losing a series of wickets later as they were reduced to 168/8. At Stumps on Day 2, England were 213/8 with captain Ben Stokes unbeaten on 45 and Jofra Archer smashing an unbeaten 30 off 48 deliveries. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 371 runs with Mitchell Starc completing his fifty. He was dismissed for 54 as he added valuable runs down the order to help the Aussies get closer to a total near 400.

Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2 and now fight for survival.&nbsp;

Ashes 2025-26: Snicko errors take spotlight as England fight for survival in Adelaide Test

Controversy was yet again on the centre stage in the Ashes on Thursday (Dec 18) as England were on the receiving end of another decision. While ICC had to reinstate one of England’s reviews for technology failure earlier on Thursday, another key decision followed when Jamie Smith was adjudged out despite a clear gap between bat and ball. The decision sparked controversy, when a day earlier Alex Carey was given not out despite him admitting to an edge on the bat in another incident.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 Jamie Smith was notout but umpire given him out. Snicko given 2 decision against England ! Then Mitchell Starc said on stumps mic 🎙️: &quot; Snicko needs to be sacked. That&#39;s the worst technology there is. They made a mistake the other day and made another today &quot;. What&#39;s your… <a href="https://t.co/5jVMVj1otm">pic.twitter.com/5jVMVj1otm</a>&mdash; Chiku 👑 (@mrsnowwhite1000) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrsnowwhite1000/status/2001527231420731756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Controversy surrounds Adelaide Test</h2>On the first ball of the 46th over, Smith appeared to have edged the ball, which was caught by wicketkeeper Carey. However, the catch was not clean and umpire Nitin Menon took help from third umpire Chris Gaffaney for a check. However, during the check process, there appeared to be a huge gap between the ball and the bat. However, Snicko showed otherwise with fluctuation visible on the Ultraedge.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;This meant the umpire gave Smith out based on the evidence despite a clear gap between bat and ball. England captain Ben Stokes was clearly unhappy with the decision as he wanted clarity on the situation.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>What happened on Day 1?</h2>On Day 1, in a similar incident, Alex Carey was given not out for a caught behind despite the ball and bat being in close proximity. In fact Carey later confirmed that he had likely touched the ball with his bat while playing the ball. It was later confirmed that a human error had caused the error, with the operator turning the wrong mic on during the check, resulting in a spike on Ultraedge.&nbsp;An apology was later issued by the technology operator while ICC decided to reinstate England’s review, as they lost it due to a manual error.

While ICC had to reinstate one of England’s reviews for technology failure earlier on Thursday, another key decision followed when Jamie Smith was adjudged out despite a clear gap between bat and ball. 

Controversy was yet again on the centre stage in the Ashes on Thursday (Dec 18) as England were on the receiving end of another decision. While ICC had to reinstate one of England’s reviews for technology failure earlier on Thursday, another key decision followed when Jamie Smith was adjudged out despite a clear gap between bat and ball. The decision sparked controversy, when a day earlier Alex Carey was given not out despite him admitting to an edge on the bat in another incident.

While ICC had to reinstate one of England’s reviews for technology failure earlier on Thursday, another key decision followed when Jamie Smith was adjudged out despite a clear gap between bat and ball.&nbsp;

Watch: Controversial snicko leads to another error in Ashes, Jamie Smith given out despite lack of evidence

Australia’s vice-captain Steve Smith was sensationally ruled out of the third Ashes Test on the morning as he left the Adelaide Oval even before the toss took place. Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw the Aussie batter miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues. With him skipping the match, veteran batter Usman Khawaja has been recalled into the side and will likely bat at No.4.<h2>Smith ruled out of Adelaide Test</h2>"He came and gave it a crack this morning but didn't think he was going to get up for this one so he has headed off home," captain Pat Cummins said at the toss. "(We're) pretty lucky we got someone like Usman who can step right in."&nbsp;Smith suffered nausea and dizziness symptoms leading into the third Test, forcing him to miss Monday's main training session. He was, however, not ruled out of the Adelaide Test and was in line for a fitness Test on the morning. He did give the fitness Test but was passed unfit and missed out altogether. With Smith missing out, Khawaja was given a reprieve and returned to the side. Smith is now expected to be fit for the fourth Test, which begins on Dec 26 in Melbourne.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>What happened at toss?</h2>On the morning of the Adelaide Test, Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bat first. Travis Head (10) and Jake Weatherald (18) were the opening batters, with Khawaja coming in at fourth. Australia lost two early wickets as both openers were dismissed before the 10th over. Although a small partnership took place between Marnus Labuschagne (19) and Usman Khawaja (82), Australia again lost their way before lunch with two quick wickets.&nbsp;At the time of writing at Tea, Australia were 194/5 in 50 overs with Alex Carey (48) and Josh Inglis (5) in the middle.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>Adelaide Test Playing XI</h2>Australia XI: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott BolandEngland XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue

Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw Steve Smith miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues. 

Australia’s vice-captain Steve Smith was sensationally ruled out of the third Ashes Test on the morning as he left the Adelaide Oval even before the toss took place. Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw the Aussie batter miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues. With him skipping the match, veteran batter Usman Khawaja has been recalled into the side and will likely bat at No.4. Smith ruled out of Adelaide Test "He came and gave it a crack this morning but didn't think he was going to get up for this one so he has headed off home," captain Pat Cummins said at the toss. "(We're) pretty lucky we got someone like Usman who can step right in." Smith suffered nausea and dizziness symptoms leading into the third Test, forcing him to miss Monday's main training session. He was, however, not ruled out of the Adelaide Test and was in line for a fitness Test on the morning. He did give the fitness Test but was passed unfit and missed out altogether. With Smith missing out, Khawaja was given a reprieve and returned to the side. Smith is now expected to be fit for the fourth Test, which begins on Dec 26 in Melbourne. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes What happened at toss? On the morning of the Adelaide Test, Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bat first. Travis Head (10) and Jake Weatherald (18) were the opening batters, with Khawaja coming in at fourth. Australia lost two early wickets as both openers were dismissed before the 10th over. Although a small partnership took place between Marnus Labuschagne (19) and Usman Khawaja (82), Australia again lost their way before lunch with two quick wickets. At the time of writing at Tea, Australia were 194/5 in 50 overs with Alex Carey (48) and Josh Inglis (5) in the middle. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Adelaide Test Playing XI Australia XI: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue

Scheduled to start on Wednesday (Dec 17), the third Ashes Test saw Steve Smith miss out due to the recurrence of inner ear issues.&nbsp;

Ashes 2025-26: Here's why Australia's Steve Smith is not playing in the Adelaide Test

England paceman Gus Atkinson was axed with Josh Tongue replacing him for the third Ashes Test against Australia in Adelaide starting Wednesday as the tourists fight to stay alive in the series. It was England's only change, with off-spinner Will Jacks keeping his place ahead of Shoaib Bashir. Atkinson struggled in eight-wicket defeats at Perth and Brisbane, clobbered for 236 with just three wickets to show for it.&nbsp;Tongue was named Monday for his seventh Test to complement a pace attack led by Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and skipper Ben Stokes.&nbsp;Bashir was considered England's number one spinner leading into the tour, but he was overlooked in an all-pace attack for Perth, then Jacks got the nod in Brisbane. Jacks only bowled 11.3 overs at the Gabba, taking 1-34, but was composed with the bat, cracking a gritty 41 in the second innings in a 96-run stand with Stokes.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bondi-beach-terror-attack-pat-cummins-urge-people-to-donate-blood-as-australia-england-pay-tribute-to-victims-1765778811267">Bondi Beach terror attack: Captain Cummins urge people to donate blood as Ashes rivals pay tribute to victims</a>&nbsp;England kept their same top seven, with the under-performing Ollie Pope fending off Jacob Bethell to retain his place at number three.<h3>England team for third Ashes Test -</h3>&nbsp;Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⬅️ Gus Atkinson ➡️ Josh Tongue We&#39;ve made one change to our starting XI for the third Test in Adelaide 📋&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/2000437412892225758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, England trail (0-2) in this five-match Test series, having lost the first two Tests inside six days combined. The Adelaide Test is a make-or-break for them.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

While Bashir continues to warm the bench Down Under, England brought in a pacer for another for the third Ashes Test starting Wednesday (Dec 17). 

England paceman Gus Atkinson was axed with Josh Tongue replacing him for the third Ashes Test against Australia in Adelaide starting Wednesday as the tourists fight to stay alive in the series. It was England's only change, with off-spinner Will Jacks keeping his place ahead of Shoaib Bashir. Atkinson struggled in eight-wicket defeats at Perth and Brisbane, clobbered for 236 with just three wickets to show for it. Tongue was named Monday for his seventh Test to complement a pace attack led by Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and skipper Ben Stokes. Bashir was considered England's number one spinner leading into the tour, but he was overlooked in an all-pace attack for Perth, then Jacks got the nod in Brisbane. Jacks only bowled 11.3 overs at the Gabba, taking 1-34, but was composed with the bat, cracking a gritty 41 in the second innings in a 96-run stand with Stokes. Also read | Bondi Beach terror attack: Captain Cummins urge people to donate blood as Ashes rivals pay tribute to victims England kept their same top seven, with the under-performing Ollie Pope fending off Jacob Bethell to retain his place at number three. England team for third Ashes Test - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue

While Bashir continues to warm the bench Down Under, England brought in a pacer for another for the third Ashes Test starting Wednesday (Dec 17).&nbsp;

Ashes: England make one change to playing XI for decisive Adelaide Test

Ashes rivals, Australia and England, have come together to pay tribute to the victims of the vicious Bondi Beach terror attack on Sunday evening (Dec 14) that shocked the nation and the world, killing 15 people and injuring over 40. Australian Test captain Pat Cummins, who returns to the side for the third Ashes Test starting Wednesday (Dec 17), has urged people to donate blood. In a joint statement released, both boards have together condemned the horrific attack on the crowd gathered to mark the first night of Hanukkah, the Jewish holiday.&nbsp;"Everybody at Cricket Australia and the England &amp; Wales Cricket Board is horrified by the tragic events at Bondi Beach yesterday evening. All of our thoughts are with the victims, their friends and families, the Jewish community and the people of Australia at this deeply distressing time. Our condolences go out to all those affected. We stand with you,” CA and ECB in a joint statement.

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Taking to his Instagram handle, Cummins posted being devastated by the horror night at the renowned Bondi Beach, adding his heart goes out to all victims and their families and Australia’s Jewish community during this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Absolutely devastated by the horror last night in Bondi. My heart goes out to the victims, their families, the people of Bondi and our Jewish community during this time. If you can, please book an appointment to donate blood,” Cummins wrote on his Instagram.<h3>Security beefs up at Adelaide Oval</h3>In the wake of this horrific incident in Sydney, the South Australian police have beefed up the security at and around the Adelaide Oval – the venue for the third Ashes Test, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said in a statement. &nbsp;"There is a major event occurring in South Australia starting on Wednesday with the Ashes Test match at Adelaide Oval," he said on Monday. "As is always the case with any major event, particularly those at Adelaide Oval, there are ongoing risk assessments that occur in the lead-up to these events. &nbsp;"Given the events that have occurred yesterday in Sydney, there will be additional protocols put in place at Adelaide Oval. This is done only as a precautionary measure, but it is appropriate that we are at a crescent sense of alertness just at the moment, for the time being. &nbsp;"I want to thank South Australian Police for their already active engagement with Adelaide Oval management in that regard,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the third Ashes Test is make or break for England as they trail (0-2) in this five-match series.&nbsp;

Cummins, who missed the first two Ashes Tests and returns to the side for the third one in Adelaide, condemned this vicious attack on his social media handle.

Ashes rivals, Australia and England, have come together to pay tribute to the victims of the vicious Bondi Beach terror attack on Sunday evening (Dec 14) that shocked the nation and the world, killing 15 people and injuring over 40. Australian Test captain Pat Cummins, who returns to the side for the third Ashes Test starting Wednesday (Dec 17), has urged people to donate blood. In a joint statement released, both boards have together condemned the horrific attack on the crowd gathered to mark the first night of Hanukkah, the Jewish holiday. "Everybody at Cricket Australia and the England & Wales Cricket Board is horrified by the tragic events at Bondi Beach yesterday evening. All of our thoughts are with the victims, their friends and families, the Jewish community and the people of Australia at this deeply distressing time. Our condolences go out to all those affected. We stand with you,” CA and ECB in a joint statement.

Cummins, who missed the first two Ashes Tests and returns to the side for the third one in Adelaide, condemned this vicious attack on his social media handle.

Bondi Beach terror attack: Captain Cummins urge people to donate blood as Ashes rivals pay tribute to victims

Things continue to heat up ahead of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide as England’s security staff got into an altercation with the local media. Two cases have been reported thus far, the first at Brisbane Airport, where security staff confronted a Channel 7 camera operator for trying to get too close to the players. The second case arose when the England Team landed in Adelaide for the make-or-break Test, and a local journalist attempted a similar approach before captain Ben Stokes and managing director Robert Key shrugged him off, while their security again intervened.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Cricket Australia’s directive to all media during the five-match Test series is that both teams should be respected when travelling between Tests, including at the airports, reading, “The Australian and England teams will not be available for interview while in transit between matches during the NRMA Ashes series. All airport, hotel and transit is vision only, to be captured from a respectful distance." &nbsp;And although those directives seemed not to have been followed, Channel 7's official statement condemned this act, vowing to take this matter seriously.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-3rd-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-south-africa-match-live-streaming-in-india-1765633471427">IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch India vs South Africa match live streaming in India?</a> &nbsp;"While conducting routine filming in a public space, the camera operator was physically confronted despite acting respectfully and professionally. The safety and well-being of our staff is paramount. This matter is being taken seriously and is now being managed through the appropriate channels,” it read. &nbsp;The English and Australian teams have historically been in the public eye in each other’s countries over the years, and this time, things haven’t been any different. From mocking and putting the visiting team under pressure for enjoying beyond their cricketing schedule in between the second and third Test to the journalists getting under their skin for not following road rules, the local media have done their bit in thrashing the English team.<h3>England under pressure &nbsp;</h3>The visiting side has played just six days of cricket on their tour thus far, having lost the first Test in Perth inside just two days and the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane in four days. Captain Ben Stokes has been critical of his team’s performance in two contested Tests, saying his dressing room needs men with strong character, indicating they must pull up their socks ahead of the third Test in Adelaide. &nbsp;The third Test begins on Wednesday (Dec 17) at the Adelaide Oval.&nbsp;

England Team has come under scrutiny for several reasons, including their off-field conduct with the local media. 

Things continue to heat up ahead of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide as England’s security staff got into an altercation with the local media. Two cases have been reported thus far, the first at Brisbane Airport, where security staff confronted a Channel 7 camera operator for trying to get too close to the players. The second case arose when the England Team landed in Adelaide for the make-or-break Test, and a local journalist attempted a similar approach before captain Ben Stokes and managing director Robert Key shrugged him off, while their security again intervened. Meanwhile, Cricket Australia’s directive to all media during the five-match Test series is that both teams should be respected when travelling between Tests, including at the airports, reading, “The Australian and England teams will not be available for interview while in transit between matches during the NRMA Ashes series. All airport, hotel and transit is vision only, to be captured from a respectful distance." And although those directives seemed not to have been followed, Channel 7's official statement condemned this act, vowing to take this matter seriously. Also read | IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch India vs South Africa match live streaming in India? "While conducting routine filming in a public space, the camera operator was physically confronted despite acting respectfully and professionally. The safety and well-being of our staff is paramount. This matter is being taken seriously and is now being managed through the appropriate channels,” it read. The English and Australian teams have historically been in the public eye in each other’s countries over the years, and this time, things haven’t been any different. From mocking and putting the visiting team under pressure for enjoying beyond their cricketing schedule in between the second and third Test to the journalists getting under their skin for not following road rules, the local media have done their bit in thrashing the English team. England under pressure The visiting side has played just six days of cricket on their tour thus far, having lost the first Test in Perth inside just two days and the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane in four days. Captain Ben Stokes has been critical of his team’s performance in two contested Tests, saying his dressing room needs men with strong character, indicating they must pull up their socks ahead of the third Test in Adelaide. The third Test begins on Wednesday (Dec 17) at the Adelaide Oval.

England Team has come under scrutiny for several reasons, including their off-field conduct with the local media.&nbsp;

Ashes: England security staff indulges in altercation with local media ahead of Adelaide Test

Former Australia opener David Warner has warned England ahead of the third Ashes Test, with the hosts set to welcome back Usman Khawaja as an opener. Australia, currently leading 2-0 in the five-match Ashes series, will have a huge boost with the return of captain Pat Cummins, but also the return of Khawaja. The latter’s return also means Travis Head will drop down to the middle order, inflicting more bad news for England.<h2>Warner warns England</h2>"I think Uzzy comes back in, slides to the top, and Trav goes down," Warner told reporters ahead of captaining Sydney Thunder in the BBL. "That's probably a worse result for England, Travis Head going back down the order."&nbsp;"At the end of the day, Travis put his hand up to bat in the situation he was in," Warner said. "He came out and batted in the way Travis Head does. You see plenty of interviews from Trav saying that is Uzzy's spot, and if when the time comes they ask him to go up the order, he wouldn't mind to do that.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;"We didn't have that aggressor down in the middle order [in previous years]. Australia has that now as well, and moving forward with whatever Uzzy decides to do, if he hangs them up, they can look that way,” Warner added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far.&nbsp;However, a win in Adelaide will see them pocket the Ashes before entering the traditional Boxing Day and New Year’s Day fixtures in Melbourne and Sydney, respectively.

Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far.

Former Australia opener David Warner has warned England ahead of the third Ashes Test, with the hosts set to welcome back Usman Khawaja as an opener. Australia, currently leading 2-0 in the five-match Ashes series, will have a huge boost with the return of captain Pat Cummins, but also the return of Khawaja. The latter’s return also means Travis Head will drop down to the middle order, inflicting more bad news for England. Warner warns England "I think Uzzy comes back in, slides to the top, and Trav goes down," Warner told reporters ahead of captaining Sydney Thunder in the BBL. "That's probably a worse result for England, Travis Head going back down the order." "At the end of the day, Travis put his hand up to bat in the situation he was in," Warner said. "He came out and batted in the way Travis Head does. You see plenty of interviews from Trav saying that is Uzzy's spot, and if when the time comes they ask him to go up the order, he wouldn't mind to do that. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes "We didn't have that aggressor down in the middle order [in previous years]. Australia has that now as well, and moving forward with whatever Uzzy decides to do, if he hangs them up, they can look that way,” Warner added. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far. However, a win in Adelaide will see them pocket the Ashes before entering the traditional Boxing Day and New Year’s Day fixtures in Melbourne and Sydney, respectively.

Australia have been convincing winners in the opening two Test matches of the Ashes as they look to seal the series in Adelaide. The hosts have a 100 percent record not just in the Ashes but also in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, winning all five matches so far.

Ashes 2025-26: David Warner warns England ahead of third Test, asks visitors to be wary of Head, Khawaja

Australia captain Pat Cummins is in line to return for the third Ashes Test against England in Adelaide after being named in a 15-man squad on Wednesday. Cummins is the only addition to an otherwise unchanged squad from Brisbane, where Australia won by eight wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The 32-year-old Cummins has been sidelined since the tour to the West Indies in July with a lower back injury.&nbsp;"We feel as though he'll be as best prepared as can be," Australia coach Andrew McDonald said.&nbsp;Under-pressure veteran opener Usman Khawaja, who did not play in the second Test because of a back injury, kept his place in the squad for the match, which begins at the Adelaide Oval on December 17.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-whatever-i-promised-i-fulfilled-how-master-blaster-sachin-tendulkar-kept-his-word-to-gursharan-singh-1765295638870">'Whatever I promised, I fulfilled': How Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar kept his word to Gursharan Singh</a>&nbsp;Josh Inglis replaced the injured left-hander in the team for the second Test, but batted in the middle order with Travis Head moving up to open alongside Jake Weatherald.&nbsp;McDonald did not rule out a fit-again Khawaja moving down the order if the dynamic Head opens again on his home Adelaide Oval wicket. Khawaja batted at five in the fourth Test of the 2021-22 Ashes, making a century in each innings -- 137 and 101 not out -- in a drawn match at Sydney.&nbsp;"Uzzie should be fit and available, and then we will work out our batting order based on the surface," McDonald said. "The assumption is that (Khawaja) can only open as well. He does have flexibility.&nbsp;"We like to think that all our batters have the flexibility to be able to perform anywhere in that order."&nbsp;Veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who has 562 Test wickets, is likely to return after being dropped at the Gabba for the first time in 12 years at home when Australia opted for an all-seam attack.&nbsp;If Cummins also plays it means that only one of Scott Boland, Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett will keep their place alongside Mitchell Starc in the pace attack.&nbsp;Starc, who is the leading wicket-taker in the series with 18, was reported fit by McDonald after suffering what the coach termed a "left side niggle" while making 77 with the bat in Australia's first innings in Brisbane.&nbsp;After Adelaide, the series moves on to Melbourne for the Boxing Day Test with the fifth and final match in Sydney starting on January 4.<h3>Australia squad for third Test -&nbsp;</h3>Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pat Cummins regains fitness and returns to captain Australia in the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, starting December 17.

Australia captain Pat Cummins is in line to return for the third Ashes Test against England in Adelaide after being named in a 15-man squad on Wednesday. Cummins is the only addition to an otherwise unchanged squad from Brisbane, where Australia won by eight wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The 32-year-old Cummins has been sidelined since the tour to the West Indies in July with a lower back injury. "We feel as though he'll be as best prepared as can be," Australia coach Andrew McDonald said. Under-pressure veteran opener Usman Khawaja, who did not play in the second Test because of a back injury, kept his place in the squad for the match, which begins at the Adelaide Oval on December 17. Also read | 'Whatever I promised, I fulfilled': How Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar kept his word to Gursharan Singh Josh Inglis replaced the injured left-hander in the team for the second Test, but batted in the middle order with Travis Head moving up to open alongside Jake Weatherald. McDonald did not rule out a fit-again Khawaja moving down the order if the dynamic Head opens again on his home Adelaide Oval wicket. Khawaja batted at five in the fourth Test of the 2021-22 Ashes, making a century in each innings -- 137 and 101 not out -- in a drawn match at Sydney. "Uzzie should be fit and available, and then we will work out our batting order based on the surface," McDonald said. "The assumption is that (Khawaja) can only open as well. He does have flexibility. "We like to think that all our batters have the flexibility to be able to perform anywhere in that order." Veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who has 562 Test wickets, is likely to return after being dropped at the Gabba for the first time in 12 years at home when Australia opted for an all-seam attack. If Cummins also plays it means that only one of Scott Boland, Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett will keep their place alongside Mitchell Starc in the pace attack. Starc, who is the leading wicket-taker in the series with 18, was reported fit by McDonald after suffering what the coach termed a "left side niggle" while making 77 with the bat in Australia's first innings in Brisbane. After Adelaide, the series moves on to Melbourne for the Boxing Day Test with the fifth and final match in Sydney starting on January 4. Australia squad for third Test - Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pat Cummins regains fitness and returns to captain Australia in the third Test at the Adelaide Oval, starting December 17.

Ashes: Australia include fit-again Cummins for Adelaide Test as hosts aim to clinch urn

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan, who led his side of a memorable Ashes victory in 2005, has called out current team's selection process. The criticism comes after England fell to 0-2 scoreline in the ongoing Ashes Down Under with three matches left. England lost both the Tests by eight wickets, in Perth first then the day-night Test in Brisbane. The context for Vaughan's comments was pre-series mockery of Australian team age profile, which is 30-plus, by England media and players.<h2>Vaughan calls out England selection process</h2>“In English cricket, we gift our players a lot quickly,” he wrote in his column for the Telegraph. “Until English cricket addresses all this, and remembers that Test cricket is a tough game that does not allow for shortcuts, the mediocrity will continue. You hear suggestions of weak men. That is what our system has created.”“Compare that to Jake Weatherald. At 31, he has been around the block and earned the right. He has been a hardened cricketer over 10 years. I do not think we would even consider looking at someone like him in English cricket. But he just looks ready,” Vaughan said.<h2>England in need of miracle to save series</h2>There's been only once in the history of Test cricket that a team has come back from 0-2 to win the series and yes, that moment came in Ashes only but not for England. It was Don Bradman's Australia which were down 0-2 in 1936-37 Ashes when they came back in some style to win the series. As for Ben Stokes's England, the series looks done and dusted, barring a miracle.Moreover, England have also been dealt with a blow after speedster Mark Wood was ruled out of the series post recurrence of knee injury. The next Test is set to be played in Adelaide from December 17 with next two Tests after that scheduled for MCG on Boxing Day and Sydney for New Year's Test.

The criticism comes after England fell to 0-2 scoreline in the ongoing Ashes Down Under with three matches left. The context for Vaughan's comments was pre-series mockery of Australian team age profile, which is 30-plus, by England media and players.

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan, who led his side of a memorable Ashes victory in 2005, has called out current team's selection process. The criticism comes after England fell to 0-2 scoreline in the ongoing Ashes Down Under with three matches left. England lost both the Tests by eight wickets, in Perth first then the day-night Test in Brisbane. The context for Vaughan's comments was pre-series mockery of Australian team age profile, which is 30-plus, by England media and players. Vaughan calls out England selection process “In English cricket, we gift our players a lot quickly,” he wrote in his column for the Telegraph. “Until English cricket addresses all this, and remembers that Test cricket is a tough game that does not allow for shortcuts, the mediocrity will continue. You hear suggestions of weak men. That is what our system has created.” “Compare that to Jake Weatherald. At 31, he has been around the block and earned the right. He has been a hardened cricketer over 10 years. I do not think we would even consider looking at someone like him in English cricket. But he just looks ready,” Vaughan said. England in need of miracle to save series There's been only once in the history of Test cricket that a team has come back from 0-2 to win the series and yes, that moment came in Ashes only but not for England. It was Don Bradman's Australia which were down 0-2 in 1936-37 Ashes when they came back in some style to win the series. As for Ben Stokes's England, the series looks done and dusted, barring a miracle. Moreover, England have also been dealt with a blow after speedster Mark Wood was ruled out of the series post recurrence of knee injury. The next Test is set to be played in Adelaide from December 17 with next two Tests after that scheduled for MCG on Boxing Day and Sydney for New Year's Test.

The criticism comes after England fell to 0-2 scoreline in the ongoing Ashes Down Under with three matches left. The context for Vaughan's comments was pre-series mockery of Australian team age profile, which is 30-plus, by England media and players.

Ashes 2025-26: Ex-skipper Michael Vaughan calls current England team selection 'suggestions of weak men' amid horror run

In a massive blow to England, their premier seamer Mark Wood has been ruled out of the ongoing Ashes following a recurrence of a knee injury he sustained during the series opener in Perth. England has replaced him with another seamer, Matthew Fisher, who is part of the England Lions squad Down Under. A lanky pacer, Fisher played his only Test three years ago against West Indies in 2022, and will link up with the senior team this week ahead of their do-or-die Adelaide Test, which starts December 17.&nbsp;Wood, who turns 36 next January, was hoping to regain fitness for the final two Tests at the MCG and SCG, respectively, but also admitted that age was catching up with him. &nbsp;"Wood will return home later this week and will work closely with the ECB medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery," an ECB statement said.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-eng-josh-hazlewood-ruled-out-of-ashes-as-australia-confirm-pat-cummins-for-adelaide-test-1765254033951">Josh Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes as Australia confirm Pat Cummins for Adelaide Test</a> &nbsp;Wood got ruled out of all cricket action since hobbling out of England’s Champions Trophy campaign in February this year. Having also missed the marquee home series against India later in June, Wood prepared hard to return to the Ashes squad, which he did and even played the series opener alongside fellow premier pacer Jofra Archer. Although he bowled rockets and as if injury was never a concern for him, Wood went wicketless in 11 overs in two innings before walking out with discomfort. &nbsp;Wood then sat out of the second Test, a Day/Night affair at the Gabba in Brisbane, which Australia won on the fourth day to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. With the Poms’ back already against the wall, Wood’s absence would make it challenging for them to bounce back and chase the urn Down Under. &nbsp;The visitors, however, have ample pacers waiting in the wings for their chance, with Josh Tongue, Matthew Potts, and now Matthew Fisher in line to get a recall to the Test side for the Adelaide Test.&nbsp;

Wood was part of the playing XI in the series opener, which ended with Australia winning inside two days. 

In a massive blow to England, their premier seamer Mark Wood has been ruled out of the ongoing Ashes following a recurrence of a knee injury he sustained during the series opener in Perth. England has replaced him with another seamer, Matthew Fisher, who is part of the England Lions squad Down Under. A lanky pacer, Fisher played his only Test three years ago against West Indies in 2022, and will link up with the senior team this week ahead of their do-or-die Adelaide Test, which starts December 17. Wood, who turns 36 next January, was hoping to regain fitness for the final two Tests at the MCG and SCG, respectively, but also admitted that age was catching up with him. "Wood will return home later this week and will work closely with the ECB medical team on his rehabilitation and recovery," an ECB statement said. Also read | Josh Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes as Australia confirm Pat Cummins for Adelaide Test Wood got ruled out of all cricket action since hobbling out of England’s Champions Trophy campaign in February this year. Having also missed the marquee home series against India later in June, Wood prepared hard to return to the Ashes squad, which he did and even played the series opener alongside fellow premier pacer Jofra Archer. Although he bowled rockets and as if injury was never a concern for him, Wood went wicketless in 11 overs in two innings before walking out with discomfort. Wood then sat out of the second Test, a Day/Night affair at the Gabba in Brisbane, which Australia won on the fourth day to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. With the Poms’ back already against the wall, Wood’s absence would make it challenging for them to bounce back and chase the urn Down Under. The visitors, however, have ample pacers waiting in the wings for their chance, with Josh Tongue, Matthew Potts, and now Matthew Fisher in line to get a recall to the Test side for the Adelaide Test.

Wood was part of the playing XI in the series opener, which ended with Australia winning inside two days.&nbsp;

Mark Wood ruled out of Ashes as England name replacement ahead of do-or-die Adelaide Test

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was on Tuesday ruled out of the rest of the Ashes against England following an injury setback. Coach Andrew McDonald told reporters that Hazlewood, who missed the first two Tests, had suffered problems in recovering from hamstring and Achilles injuries and would sit out the remaining three matches.&nbsp;"Really flat for him. A couple of setbacks that we didn't see coming," McDonald said. "We thought he'd play a huge part in the series. But really feel for him that he won't get that opportunity."&nbsp;Hazlewood will now aim to be fully fit for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, which begins in February.&nbsp;Meanwhile, his fellow fast bowler and Pat Cummins, looks certain to return as captain when Australia look to wrap up the series in next week's third Test in Adelaide. The 32-year-old Cummins has been sidelined since the tour to the West Indies in July with a lower back injury.&nbsp;McDonald said that Cummins had come through a match-like workload in training last week and was ready to play.&nbsp;"This is something we've done with Pat before with longish layoffs, where we've put some time and effort into rebuilding his body," said McDonald. "He simulated pretty much what a match will look like out there with multiple spells. So, we feel as though he'll be as best prepared as can be."&nbsp;Mitchell Starc, who leads the bowling charts with 18 wickets in the first two Tests, had battled a left side niggle at the Gabba but would be fit for Adelaide, said McDonald.&nbsp;Australia lead the five-match series 2-0.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Even in their absence, Australia took a formidable 2-0 lead in this five-match series. 

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was on Tuesday ruled out of the rest of the Ashes against England following an injury setback. Coach Andrew McDonald told reporters that Hazlewood, who missed the first two Tests, had suffered problems in recovering from hamstring and Achilles injuries and would sit out the remaining three matches. "Really flat for him. A couple of setbacks that we didn't see coming," McDonald said. "We thought he'd play a huge part in the series. But really feel for him that he won't get that opportunity." Hazlewood will now aim to be fully fit for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, which begins in February. Meanwhile, his fellow fast bowler and Pat Cummins, looks certain to return as captain when Australia look to wrap up the series in next week's third Test in Adelaide. The 32-year-old Cummins has been sidelined since the tour to the West Indies in July with a lower back injury. McDonald said that Cummins had come through a match-like workload in training last week and was ready to play. "This is something we've done with Pat before with longish layoffs, where we've put some time and effort into rebuilding his body," said McDonald. "He simulated pretty much what a match will look like out there with multiple spells. So, we feel as though he'll be as best prepared as can be." Mitchell Starc, who leads the bowling charts with 18 wickets in the first two Tests, had battled a left side niggle at the Gabba but would be fit for Adelaide, said McDonald. Australia lead the five-match series 2-0. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Even in their absence, Australia took a formidable 2-0 lead in this five-match series.&nbsp;

Josh Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes as Australia confirm Pat Cummins for Adelaide Test

England are 0-2 down in the Ashes Down Under after another eight-wicket loss, this time at the Gabba in day-nigh Brisbane Test. England were not at par with Australia barring Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia but head coach Brendon McCullum thinks the reason for loss is 'over preparedness.' &nbsp;"Leading into this Test match, I actually felt like we over-prepared, to be honest," McCullum told Australian broadcaster Channel 7 after the loss. "We had five intense training days. When you're in the heat of the battle, as we all know, sometimes the most important thing is to feel a little bit fresh and make sure your top two inches [of your head] is completely sound."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-virat-kohli-south-africa-odis-says-he-has-not-played-at-this-level-in-2-3-years-1765088130149">'Haven't played at this level in...' Kohli feels like Kohli after SA ODIs</a>The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Across both innings in the Brisbane Test, the most balls played by any England batter, apart from Root's 206 in the first innings for ton, is 152 by Ben Stokes in the second innings for his 50 but it was too late by then.Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes, highlighting lack of patience by visitors which definitely played a big role them looking 0-2 in the five-Test Ashes series.There's been only once in the history of Test cricket that a team has come back from 0-2 to win the series and yes, that moment came in Ashes only but not for England.It was Don Bradman's Australia which were down 0-2 in 1936-37 Ashes when they came back in some style to win the series. As for Ben Stokes's England, the series looks done and dusted, barring a miracle.

The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes.

England are 0-2 down in the Ashes Down Under after another eight-wicket loss, this time at the Gabba in day-nigh Brisbane Test. England were not at par with Australia barring Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia but head coach Brendon McCullum thinks the reason for loss is 'over preparedness.' "Leading into this Test match, I actually felt like we over-prepared, to be honest," McCullum told Australian broadcaster Channel 7 after the loss. "We had five intense training days. When you're in the heat of the battle, as we all know, sometimes the most important thing is to feel a little bit fresh and make sure your top two inches [of your head] is completely sound." Also Read - 'Haven't played at this level in...' Kohli feels like Kohli after SA ODIs The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Across both innings in the Brisbane Test, the most balls played by any England batter, apart from Root's 206 in the first innings for ton, is 152 by Ben Stokes in the second innings for his 50 but it was too late by then. Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes, highlighting lack of patience by visitors which definitely played a big role them looking 0-2 in the five-Test Ashes series. There's been only once in the history of Test cricket that a team has come back from 0-2 to win the series and yes, that moment came in Ashes only but not for England. It was Don Bradman's Australia which were down 0-2 in 1936-37 Ashes when they came back in some style to win the series. As for Ben Stokes's England, the series looks done and dusted, barring a miracle.

The reason can be categorieed as bizarre as England's philosophy of playing attacking cricket all the time, even when the situation demands a bit of patience. Only five England batters were able to cross 50-ball mark in both innings combined including Root and Stokes.

Ashes 2025-26: McCullum says England 'over prepared' after Brisbane Test loss

Australia have strengthened their lead in the WTC table after two straight wins in the ongoing series. However, let's check where India ranks in the table.


Australia have strengthened their lead in the WTC table after two straight wins in the ongoing series. However, let's check where India ranks in the table.

WTC 2025-27: Australia tops table after Brisbane win, where does India stand?

England find themselves deep in trouble in this Ashes series, having suffered heavy defeats in both Perth and Brisbane, where their batting collapsed under pressure, and their bowlers struggled to control the game for long periods. What looked like a fresh start at the beginning of the tour has quickly turned into a desperate situation, with the 0–2 scoreline exposing issues in temperament, execution, and discipline across the squad.&nbsp;&nbsp;The atmosphere around the team has shifted, and as the pressure builds, England now walk into the rest of the series knowing that only one team in Test history has ever overturned such a deficit, leaving fans and former players wondering if a revival is possible or if this campaign is already slipping beyond reach. And here’s the reality: when a team falls 0–2 behind in a Test series, the chances of coming back are almost zero. Across all the years of Test cricket, only one team has ever pulled it off.&nbsp;Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-will-india-next-see-virat-kohli-and-rohit-don-the-indian-jersey-1765116460975"> When will India next see Virat Kohli and Rohit don the Indian jersey</a><h2>Any guesses about that team?</h2>Well, that was the mighty Australia, during the 1936–37 Ashes under Don Bradman. That turnaround remains the only one of its kind, and the story behind it is still unbelievable.<h2>First Test, Brisbane – England win by 322 runs</h2>Australia were blown away on a sticky rain-affected wicket. After England put up 358 and 256, Australia replied with 234 and collapsed for 58 in the second innings when overnight rain turned the pitch into chaos. Bradman made 38 and 0, and the press went after him hard. It was his first Test as captain, and it couldn’t have gone worse.<h2>Second Test, Sydney – England win by an innings and 22 runs</h2>The toss decided the match as England batted first on a good pitch, and Wally Hammond’s unbeaten 231 put them miles ahead. Then rain ruined the surface again, and Australia were shot out for 80 in the first innings and were enforced to follow on. Bradman was dismissed first ball in the first innings and criticised again despite scoring 82 in the second. Australia were now 0–2 down. Calls for Bradman to step aside grew louder.<h2>Third Test, Melbourne – Australia win by 365 runs</h2>This is where everything flipped. Bradman won the toss, declared early, used the wet pitch smartly, flipped the batting order, and then produced one of the greatest innings ever played, a monumental 270. Australia dominated and clawed back to 1–2.<h2>Fourth Test, Adelaide – Australia win by 148 runs</h2>This test was another Bradman masterclass. His 212 turned the match after England had taken a first-innings lead. Fleetwood-Smith’s left-arm wrist spin in the second innings (6-110) sealed the game and levelled the series for the Aussies.<h2>Fifth Test, Melbourne – Australia win by an innings and 200 runs</h2>Bradman signed off with a fluent 169 as Australia piled up 604 batting till the third day. England never recovered and collapsed for 239 and 165 as Australia completed the only 0–2 comeback in Test history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thus, Australia etched their name in record books by being the only team to win a series after being 0-2 down.

England now walk into the rest of the series knowing that only one team in Test history has ever overturned such a deficit, leaving fans and former players wondering if a revival is possible or if this campaign is already slipping beyond reach. 

England find themselves deep in trouble in this Ashes series, having suffered heavy defeats in both Perth and Brisbane, where their batting collapsed under pressure, and their bowlers struggled to control the game for long periods. What looked like a fresh start at the beginning of the tour has quickly turned into a desperate situation, with the 0–2 scoreline exposing issues in temperament, execution, and discipline across the squad. The atmosphere around the team has shifted, and as the pressure builds, England now walk into the rest of the series knowing that only one team in Test history has ever overturned such a deficit, leaving fans and former players wondering if a revival is possible or if this campaign is already slipping beyond reach. And here’s the reality: when a team falls 0–2 behind in a Test series, the chances of coming back are almost zero. Across all the years of Test cricket, only one team has ever pulled it off. Also read | When will India next see Virat Kohli and Rohit don the Indian jersey Any guesses about that team? Well, that was the mighty Australia, during the 1936–37 Ashes under Don Bradman. That turnaround remains the only one of its kind, and the story behind it is still unbelievable. First Test, Brisbane – England win by 322 runs Australia were blown away on a sticky rain-affected wicket. After England put up 358 and 256, Australia replied with 234 and collapsed for 58 in the second innings when overnight rain turned the pitch into chaos. Bradman made 38 and 0, and the press went after him hard. It was his first Test as captain, and it couldn’t have gone worse. Second Test, Sydney – England win by an innings and 22 runs The toss decided the match as England batted first on a good pitch, and Wally Hammond’s unbeaten 231 put them miles ahead. Then rain ruined the surface again, and Australia were shot out for 80 in the first innings and were enforced to follow on. Bradman was dismissed first ball in the first innings and criticised again despite scoring 82 in the second. Australia were now 0–2 down. Calls for Bradman to step aside grew louder. Third Test, Melbourne – Australia win by 365 runs This is where everything flipped. Bradman won the toss, declared early, used the wet pitch smartly, flipped the batting order, and then produced one of the greatest innings ever played, a monumental 270. Australia dominated and clawed back to 1–2. Fourth Test, Adelaide – Australia win by 148 runs This test was another Bradman masterclass. His 212 turned the match after England had taken a first-innings lead. Fleetwood-Smith’s left-arm wrist spin in the second innings (6-110) sealed the game and levelled the series for the Aussies. Fifth Test, Melbourne – Australia win by an innings and 200 runs Bradman signed off with a fluent 169 as Australia piled up 604 batting till the third day. England never recovered and collapsed for 239 and 165 as Australia completed the only 0–2 comeback in Test history. Thus, Australia etched their name in record books by being the only team to win a series after being 0-2 down.

England now walk into the rest of the series knowing that only one team in Test history has ever overturned such a deficit, leaving fans and former players wondering if a revival is possible or if this campaign is already slipping beyond reach.&nbsp;

Meet the ONLY team to win Test series after being 0–2 down: Can England be the second?

Australia cruised to an emphatic eight-wicket win over England in the day-night second Ashes Test in Brisbane on Sunday for an ominous 2-0 lead in the series. Set a paltry target of 65 for victory, Australia captain Steve Smith pulled Gus Atkinson for a huge six over square leg to get the job done in style. Although not as humiliating as the two-day loss in the first Test at Perth, England were comprehensively outplayed in every department.&nbsp;Australia are now overwhelming favourites to retain the Ashes with matches in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney to follow.&nbsp;"Great day. First two days were pretty even, game turned when we were able to extend to get the new ball under lights, that was crucial for us," said Smith, who clashed verbally with England bowler Jofra Archer as the hosts raced to victory.&nbsp;"It can be tricky with the pink ball, it changes really quickly and you have to adapt."For England it was more misery.&nbsp;Their batting, apart from Joe Root and Zak Crawley in the first innings and captain Ben Stokes and Will Jacks in the second, was just as rash as in Perth. They gave their wickets away with poor strokes on the bouncy Gabba surface.&nbsp;They also bowled poorly, pitching too short and wasting the new pink ball, in stark contrast to an Australian attack missing spearheads Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;To make matters worse England dropped five catches in the first innings, whereas Australia's fielders caught everything that came their way.&nbsp;Josh Inglis's brilliant run-out of Stokes in the first innings changed the course of the match.&nbsp;"Obviously very disappointing," said Stokes.&nbsp;"I think a lot of it comes down to not being able to stand up to the pressure of this game, this format, when the game is on the line."&nbsp;England were behind the game once they let Australia's tail help the home side post 511 on Saturday, an overall lead of 177.&nbsp;They then lost six second-innings wickets under lights to end the third day 134-6, still 43 runs behind the Australian total.&nbsp;While many expected England to surrender meekly on Sunday, Stokes and all-rounder Jacks led a fighting rearguard action to ensure Australia had to bat a second time.&nbsp;Stokes and Jacks defied the Australian pace attack on a fiercely hot day to edge their way past the initial deficit target and begin to set Australia something to chase.<h2>Flicker of resistance</h2>England batting coach Marcus Trescothick said Saturday his batsmen would not change their aggressive approach, despite a clatter of wickets from poor shots. But Stokes and Jacks were patient during the first session Sunday.&nbsp;They left balls they didn't need to play and seemed happy to take their runs in singles rather than expansive boundary shots.&nbsp;They scored just 28 runs in the first hour and passed the 43-run deficit 96 minutes into the session, scoring only 59 runs in the two hours.&nbsp;The Australian bowlers, who ran rampant under lights on Saturday with the pink ball, were far more ineffective on Sunday, despite the wicket beginning to play some tricks.&nbsp;The English offered only one chance when Scott Boland squared up Stokes, who got a thick edge over the slips cordon.&nbsp;They continued to frustrate the Australians in the second session until just before the drinks break Jacks got an edge to Michael Neser and Smith snared a breath-taking catch at slip, diving full length to his left and catching it low to the ground.&nbsp;Neser struck again in the next over when Stokes nibbled at a ball outside the off-stump and got a fine edge to keeper Alex Carey to leave England 227-8, a lead of exactly 50.Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Archer offered no real resistance as Neser recorded career-best figures of 5-42.&nbsp;Sixty-five was never going to be enough and although Australia lost Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne in the chase, Smith and Jake Weatherald guided the home side to an easy win.&nbsp;"A great game of cricket, very clinical," said Inglis, who was born in England.&nbsp;"Timing is a big thing in pink-ball cricket, when you're batting and bowling."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

Set a paltry target of 65 for victory, Australia captain Steve Smith pulled Gus Atkinson for a huge six over square leg to get the job done in style.

Australia cruised to an emphatic eight-wicket win over England in the day-night second Ashes Test in Brisbane on Sunday for an ominous 2-0 lead in the series. Set a paltry target of 65 for victory, Australia captain Steve Smith pulled Gus Atkinson for a huge six over square leg to get the job done in style. Although not as humiliating as the two-day loss in the first Test at Perth, England were comprehensively outplayed in every department. Australia are now overwhelming favourites to retain the Ashes with matches in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney to follow. "Great day. First two days were pretty even, game turned when we were able to extend to get the new ball under lights, that was crucial for us," said Smith, who clashed verbally with England bowler Jofra Archer as the hosts raced to victory. "It can be tricky with the pink ball, it changes really quickly and you have to adapt." For England it was more misery. Their batting, apart from Joe Root and Zak Crawley in the first innings and captain Ben Stokes and Will Jacks in the second, was just as rash as in Perth. They gave their wickets away with poor strokes on the bouncy Gabba surface. They also bowled poorly, pitching too short and wasting the new pink ball, in stark contrast to an Australian attack missing spearheads Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. To make matters worse England dropped five catches in the first innings, whereas Australia's fielders caught everything that came their way. Josh Inglis's brilliant run-out of Stokes in the first innings changed the course of the match. "Obviously very disappointing," said Stokes. "I think a lot of it comes down to not being able to stand up to the pressure of this game, this format, when the game is on the line." England were behind the game once they let Australia's tail help the home side post 511 on Saturday, an overall lead of 177. They then lost six second-innings wickets under lights to end the third day 134-6, still 43 runs behind the Australian total. While many expected England to surrender meekly on Sunday, Stokes and all-rounder Jacks led a fighting rearguard action to ensure Australia had to bat a second time. Stokes and Jacks defied the Australian pace attack on a fiercely hot day to edge their way past the initial deficit target and begin to set Australia something to chase. Flicker of resistance England batting coach Marcus Trescothick said Saturday his batsmen would not change their aggressive approach, despite a clatter of wickets from poor shots. But Stokes and Jacks were patient during the first session Sunday. They left balls they didn't need to play and seemed happy to take their runs in singles rather than expansive boundary shots. They scored just 28 runs in the first hour and passed the 43-run deficit 96 minutes into the session, scoring only 59 runs in the two hours. The Australian bowlers, who ran rampant under lights on Saturday with the pink ball, were far more ineffective on Sunday, despite the wicket beginning to play some tricks. The English offered only one chance when Scott Boland squared up Stokes, who got a thick edge over the slips cordon. They continued to frustrate the Australians in the second session until just before the drinks break Jacks got an edge to Michael Neser and Smith snared a breath-taking catch at slip, diving full length to his left and catching it low to the ground. Neser struck again in the next over when Stokes nibbled at a ball outside the off-stump and got a fine edge to keeper Alex Carey to leave England 227-8, a lead of exactly 50. Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Archer offered no real resistance as Neser recorded career-best figures of 5-42. Sixty-five was never going to be enough and although Australia lost Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne in the chase, Smith and Jake Weatherald guided the home side to an easy win. "A great game of cricket, very clinical," said Inglis, who was born in England. "Timing is a big thing in pink-ball cricket, when you're batting and bowling." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Set a paltry target of 65 for victory, Australia captain Steve Smith pulled Gus Atkinson for a huge six over square leg to get the job done in style.

Ashes 2025-26: Australia crush England by eight wickets, lead series 2-0

Memories, or rather nightmares of Perth, might have crept in when Mitchell Starc sent Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope to the pavilion for a pair of ducks. At the other end was Zack Crawley, also on a pair, who could do nothing but only had the honour of watching everything in dismay. After the Aussie left-arm pacer made Duckett nick one to the slip cordon, he quickly followed up with a Jaffa of a delivery that dislodged the stumps of Pope. The Poms were once again rattled in a familiar territory at five runs for the loss of two wickets. Then came Joe Root, who had his heart in his mouth when he was put down at second slip by Aussie skipper Steve Smith. &nbsp;However, the Yorkshireman moved on and, alongside Crawley, steadied the England innings by putting his head down and showing his technical prowess and craftsmanship. &nbsp;Whilst Root milked and grinded at one end, Crawley kept the scoreboard ticking before being dismissed for 76. &nbsp;Albeit the tumbling wickets at the other end, the right-hand batter showed his class with a wide array of shots, including the on-drives, pull shots and the square cuts that fittingly paid tribute to the late Robin Smith, who sadly passed away this week.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-australia-take-control-of-brisbane-test-with-44-run-lead-1764934266304">Ashes 2025-26: Australia take control of Brisbane Test with 44-run lead</a> &nbsp;As Root tucked away Boland to fine leg for a boundary, the Yorkshireman reached his 40th Test Century, his first on Australian soil that had remained elusive for more than a decade. The English batter not only got the monkey off his back but also showed that the old Joe Root is back. &nbsp;However, just when England were about to get folded up around the 270 mark, Root alongside Jofra Archer stitched another 70-odd runs for the final wicket in what could be called a bazballish finish that saw the right-hand batter flaying Aussie pacer Scott Boland to the stands with an unorthodox reverse sweep. &nbsp;With this hundred, Root now moves to the fourth position for the most number of centuries in Test cricket and is now part of an elite club of players to have 40 or more Test hundreds. This includes Sachin Tendulkar (51), Jacques Kallis (45) and Ricky Ponting (41). &nbsp;Averaging at around 37 (as per ESPN Crickinfo data), Joe Root was questioned by critics whether he was truly in the fabled Fab Four (Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson) back in 2019. &nbsp;With Virat Kohli retired from Test Cricket, and Steve Smith and Kane Williamson still need some catching up to do, Root has made his standing firm as the leader of the pack with an average of 65 in over 13,000 runs in 2025. &nbsp;Smith averaged around 74 in 2019 and is currently averaging 50 with just 36 hundreds and 10,557 runs. On the other hand, Kane Williamson averaged around 51 in 2019 and is currently averaging 30 with 33 Test hundreds and 8,675 runs. &nbsp;In a season of stranger things where Test matches end in two days, Root’s hundred might certainly help England to turn things upside down at the Gabba in Brisbane following their shell-shocking defeat in Perth. &nbsp;On a lighter note, Joe Root has also saved us from the horrendous sight of seeing a certain Matthew Hayden Naked at the Boxing Day Test in MCG, Melbourne. &nbsp;For The Western Australian Newspaper, Well, Joe Root is not your average Joe.

With this hundred, Joe Root now moves to the fourth position for the most number of centuries in Test cricket and is now part of an elite club of players to have 40 or more Test hundreds.

Memories, or rather nightmares of Perth, might have crept in when Mitchell Starc sent Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope to the pavilion for a pair of ducks. At the other end was Zack Crawley, also on a pair, who could do nothing but only had the honour of watching everything in dismay. After the Aussie left-arm pacer made Duckett nick one to the slip cordon, he quickly followed up with a Jaffa of a delivery that dislodged the stumps of Pope. The Poms were once again rattled in a familiar territory at five runs for the loss of two wickets. Then came Joe Root, who had his heart in his mouth when he was put down at second slip by Aussie skipper Steve Smith. However, the Yorkshireman moved on and, alongside Crawley, steadied the England innings by putting his head down and showing his technical prowess and craftsmanship. Whilst Root milked and grinded at one end, Crawley kept the scoreboard ticking before being dismissed for 76. Albeit the tumbling wickets at the other end, the right-hand batter showed his class with a wide array of shots, including the on-drives, pull shots and the square cuts that fittingly paid tribute to the late Robin Smith, who sadly passed away this week. Also read | Ashes 2025-26: Australia take control of Brisbane Test with 44-run lead As Root tucked away Boland to fine leg for a boundary, the Yorkshireman reached his 40th Test Century, his first on Australian soil that had remained elusive for more than a decade. The English batter not only got the monkey off his back but also showed that the old Joe Root is back. However, just when England were about to get folded up around the 270 mark, Root alongside Jofra Archer stitched another 70-odd runs for the final wicket in what could be called a bazballish finish that saw the right-hand batter flaying Aussie pacer Scott Boland to the stands with an unorthodox reverse sweep. With this hundred, Root now moves to the fourth position for the most number of centuries in Test cricket and is now part of an elite club of players to have 40 or more Test hundreds. This includes Sachin Tendulkar (51), Jacques Kallis (45) and Ricky Ponting (41). Averaging at around 37 (as per ESPN Crickinfo data), Joe Root was questioned by critics whether he was truly in the fabled Fab Four (Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson) back in 2019. With Virat Kohli retired from Test Cricket, and Steve Smith and Kane Williamson still need some catching up to do, Root has made his standing firm as the leader of the pack with an average of 65 in over 13,000 runs in 2025. Smith averaged around 74 in 2019 and is currently averaging 50 with just 36 hundreds and 10,557 runs. On the other hand, Kane Williamson averaged around 51 in 2019 and is currently averaging 30 with 33 Test hundreds and 8,675 runs. In a season of stranger things where Test matches end in two days, Root’s hundred might certainly help England to turn things upside down at the Gabba in Brisbane following their shell-shocking defeat in Perth. On a lighter note, Joe Root has also saved us from the horrendous sight of seeing a certain Matthew Hayden Naked at the Boxing Day Test in MCG, Melbourne. For The Western Australian Newspaper, Well, Joe Root is not your average Joe.

With this hundred, Joe Root now moves to the fourth position for the most number of centuries in Test cricket and is now part of an elite club of players to have 40 or more Test hundreds.

AUS vs ENG 2nd Ashes Test: Far better than your average Joe

Australia closed day two of the pink-ball Test in a commanding position at 378 for 6, taking clear control after surpassing England’s first innings score of 334. Openers Jack Weatherald and Travis Head laid a solid foundation with a 77-run stand, with Weatherald registering his maiden Test fifty. Marnus Labuschagne continued the momentum with a composed half-century before falling, while skipper Steven Smith contributed a valuable 61, marking his 40th Test fifty. At stumps, Michael Neser and Alex Carey were at the crease, ensuring Australia maintained momentum and extended their lead to 44 runs.&nbsp;The day saw England struggling to get a breakthrough. Ben Stokes and Brydon Carse looked tired, while Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson failed to make an impact. After Joe Root’s brilliant century in Perth, England hoped to fight back, but Australia quickly took charge at the Gabba. At one point, they were cruising at 3-293, with Steve Smith and Cameron Green dominating a worn-out English attack.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-breaks-long-wait-with-maiden-test-century-on-australian-soil-1764844001513">Joe Root breaks long wait with maiden Test century on Australian soil</a>&nbsp;England did fight back a little late in the day. Carse and Stokes picked up a couple of wickets, but England’s fielding let them down, with five catches dropped. Travis Head added 30 more runs after being dropped, and Alex Carey stayed not out on 46, taking advantage of two missed chances. Marnus Labuschagne’s 65 was another solid contribution before he got out.&nbsp;Australia’s top order had dominated throughout, with Weatherald scoring a sparkling 72 and Labuschagne and Smith adding steady half-centuries. England’s fast bowlers struggled to create pressure for most of the day, and although Green and Smith fell late to Carse, missed catches allowed Australia to recover quickly.&nbsp;By the end of the day, Neser and Carey had added an unbeaten 49 runs. Australia scored at over five runs per over in the final session.

Openers Jack Weatherald and Travis Head laid a solid foundation with a 77-run stand, with Weatherald registering his maiden Test fifty. Marnus Labuschagne continued the momentum with a composed half-century

Australia closed day two of the pink-ball Test in a commanding position at 378 for 6, taking clear control after surpassing England’s first innings score of 334. Openers Jack Weatherald and Travis Head laid a solid foundation with a 77-run stand, with Weatherald registering his maiden Test fifty. Marnus Labuschagne continued the momentum with a composed half-century before falling, while skipper Steven Smith contributed a valuable 61, marking his 40th Test fifty. At stumps, Michael Neser and Alex Carey were at the crease, ensuring Australia maintained momentum and extended their lead to 44 runs. The day saw England struggling to get a breakthrough. Ben Stokes and Brydon Carse looked tired, while Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson failed to make an impact. After Joe Root’s brilliant century in Perth, England hoped to fight back, but Australia quickly took charge at the Gabba. At one point, they were cruising at 3-293, with Steve Smith and Cameron Green dominating a worn-out English attack. Also read | Joe Root breaks long wait with maiden Test century on Australian soil England did fight back a little late in the day. Carse and Stokes picked up a couple of wickets, but England’s fielding let them down, with five catches dropped. Travis Head added 30 more runs after being dropped, and Alex Carey stayed not out on 46, taking advantage of two missed chances. Marnus Labuschagne’s 65 was another solid contribution before he got out. Australia’s top order had dominated throughout, with Weatherald scoring a sparkling 72 and Labuschagne and Smith adding steady half-centuries. England’s fast bowlers struggled to create pressure for most of the day, and although Green and Smith fell late to Carse, missed catches allowed Australia to recover quickly. By the end of the day, Neser and Carey had added an unbeaten 49 runs. Australia scored at over five runs per over in the final session.

Openers Jack Weatherald and Travis Head laid a solid foundation with a 77-run stand, with Weatherald registering his maiden Test fifty. Marnus Labuschagne continued the momentum with a composed half-century.

Ashes 2025-26: Australia take control of Brisbane Test with 44-run lead

Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood's plans to play a part in the ongoing Ashes series have hit another roadblock. The pacer, who has already missed the first Test and the ongoing second Test in Perth and Brisbane, respectively, is now looking doubtful for the last two Tests as well. Hazlewood was already not a prospect for third Ashes Test in Adelaide after picking up a hamstring injury in a Shield game before the opening Ashes Test. He was expected to join the Australia team in Brisbane but now that plan has been put on hold after he picked up Achilles soreness during the rehab.<h2>Cricket Australia on Hazlewood</h2>"Josh Hazlewood reported Achilles soreness this week during his rehabilitation from recent hamstring injury," a Cricket Australia statement said. "It is a low-grade issue and he is expected to recommence running and bowling next week."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-star-lebron-james-s-18-year-old-streak-comes-to-end-after-1-297-games-1764924900737">NBA star LeBron James's 18-year-old streak comes to end after 1,297 games</a>Hazlewood's latest injury does not bode well for Australia who are dealing with multiple such scenarios in the ongoing Ashes. The hosts are already without regular skipper Pat Cummins who has also not played the first two Tests but is hopeful of playing in Adelaide.<h2>Mitchell Starc raises his hand up</h2>In absence of Cummins and Hazlewood. Starc has stepped up in some style. The pacer took 10 wickets in the Perth Test including a seven-for in the first innings. At the Gabba, England batted first again and Starc picked up another five-wicket haul. He finished with 6/75 - making him the first Australian pacer to take at least a six-wicket haul in three consecutive Tests. Before his Ashes exploits, Starc had also taken 6/9 in a Test against West Indies. His 16 wickets so far in the two Ashes Tests are also the highest since Mitchell Johnson's 17 in 2013-14 series.

Hazlewood's latest injury does not bode well for Australia who are dealing with multiple such scenarios in the ongoing Ashes. The hosts are already without regular skipper Pat Cummins who has also not played the first two Tests but is hopeful of playing in Adelaide.

Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood's plans to play a part in the ongoing Ashes series have hit another roadblock. The pacer, who has already missed the first Test and the ongoing second Test in Perth and Brisbane, respectively, is now looking doubtful for the last two Tests as well. Hazlewood was already not a prospect for third Ashes Test in Adelaide after picking up a hamstring injury in a Shield game before the opening Ashes Test. He was expected to join the Australia team in Brisbane but now that plan has been put on hold after he picked up Achilles soreness during the rehab. Cricket Australia on Hazlewood "Josh Hazlewood reported Achilles soreness this week during his rehabilitation from recent hamstring injury," a Cricket Australia statement said. "It is a low-grade issue and he is expected to recommence running and bowling next week." Also Read - NBA star LeBron James's 18-year-old streak comes to end after 1,297 games Hazlewood's latest injury does not bode well for Australia who are dealing with multiple such scenarios in the ongoing Ashes. The hosts are already without regular skipper Pat Cummins who has also not played the first two Tests but is hopeful of playing in Adelaide. Mitchell Starc raises his hand up In absence of Cummins and Hazlewood. Starc has stepped up in some style. The pacer took 10 wickets in the Perth Test including a seven-for in the first innings. At the Gabba, England batted first again and Starc picked up another five-wicket haul. He finished with 6/75 - making him the first Australian pacer to take at least a six-wicket haul in three consecutive Tests. Before his Ashes exploits, Starc had also taken 6/9 in a Test against West Indies. His 16 wickets so far in the two Ashes Tests are also the highest since Mitchell Johnson's 17 in 2013-14 series.

Hazlewood's latest injury does not bode well for Australia who are dealing with multiple such scenarios in the ongoing Ashes. The hosts are already without regular skipper Pat Cummins who has also not played the first two Tests but is hopeful of playing in Adelaide.

More woes for Australia! Josh Hazlewood picks up Achilles soreness during rehab from hamstring injury

Mitchell Starc lit up the opening day in Brisbane with a six-wicket haul that not only put Australia on top but also carried him past Wasim Akram to become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test history. The milestone arrived in classic Starc fashion, under lights, with the pink ball doing just enough while England scrambled to hold their innings together.&nbsp;Before Starc even spoke about his achievement, Akram was the first to applaud him. The Pakistan legend posted on X: "Super Starc! Proud of you, mate. Your incredible hard work sets you apart, and it was only a matter of time before you crossed my tally of wickets. I am pleased to give this to you! Go well, and keep soaring to new heights in your stellar career."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-zak-crawley-praises-england-s-late-surge-as-root-and-archer-shine-in-brisbane-1764862647236">Ashes 2025-26: Zak Crawley praises England’s late surge as Root and Archer shine in Brisbane</a>

Wasim Akram, the man widely regarded as the greatest left-arm fast bowler, had passed the torch with generosity, setting the tone for the day. Starc’s 6 for 71 marked his sixth five-wicket haul in day-night Tests, the most by any bowler. He now owns 87 wickets with the pink ball, far ahead of Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins on 43 each. The haul pushed his overall tally to 418 wickets in 102 Tests, cementing him as Australia’s fourth-highest wicket-taker.&nbsp;Only after stumps did Starc speak about his achievement. "Wasim is still the pinnacle and better," he said, keeping his reaction grounded despite a day full of numbers in his favour. He also admitted he still can’t quite decode why the pink ball works so well for him. "I get asked all the time, I still don't know. It is what it is. I think it is still like a white ball. Today, it was a softball… A pretty tough day's cricket," he said.


Starc’s 6 for 71 marked his sixth five-wicket haul in day-night Tests, the most by any bowler. He now owns 87 wickets with the pink ball, far ahead of Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins on 43 each

Mitchell Starc lit up the opening day in Brisbane with a six-wicket haul that not only put Australia on top but also carried him past Wasim Akram to become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test history. The milestone arrived in classic Starc fashion, under lights, with the pink ball doing just enough while England scrambled to hold their innings together. Before Starc even spoke about his achievement, Akram was the first to applaud him. The Pakistan legend posted on X: "Super Starc! Proud of you, mate. Your incredible hard work sets you apart, and it was only a matter of time before you crossed my tally of wickets. I am pleased to give this to you! Go well, and keep soaring to new heights in your stellar career." Also read | Ashes 2025-26: Zak Crawley praises England’s late surge as Root and Archer shine in Brisbane

Starc’s 6 for 71 marked his sixth five-wicket haul in day-night Tests, the most by any bowler. He now owns 87 wickets with the pink ball, far ahead of Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins on 43 each

Starc says Akram still pinnacle of left-arm pace despite becoming highest Test wicket-taker

England walked off the field in Brisbane feeling they had taken control of the final hour on day one of the second Ashes Test. Joe Root and Jofra Archer turned a tense situation into a strong finish, pushing England to 325 for 9 by stumps and lifting the mood inside the dressing room.&nbsp;Root was unbeaten on 111 when the clock hit the scheduled close of play, with England at 269 for 9. It reminded many of the 2023 Edgbaston Test, when Ben Stokes declared with Root on 118 to have a short burst at Australia before stumps. This time, though, England chose to bat on, especially because the pink ball under lights could’ve given their bowlers a chance later.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-5-players-with-highest-individual-scores-between-ind-vs-sa-1764857243974">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli: 5 players with highest individual scores at Vizag</a>&nbsp;Some, including David Warner on TV commentary, expected a declaration. But Australia were in no hurry either. Steven Smith slowed the game down, and Root even had a word with the umpire as field changes and delays kept happening. Then came the shift. Root and Archer sensed an opening and attacked. They added 56 runs in the last six overs, swinging the momentum England’s way. Archer hit Boland for a massive six first ball, then lofted Mitchell Starc down the ground. Root joined in with a sharp reverse scoop as the partnership raced ahead. By the end of the day, Root had moved to 135 not out, while Archer made a career-best 32. Their stand of 61 was England’s first tenth-wicket fifty in Australia since 1982 and their first in any Ashes Test since 2023.&nbsp;Starc, who took six wickets, looked frustrated with the old pink ball and with how Australia handled the final phase. He said it felt like bowling with a tennis ball and hoped they could wrap up the innings early on day two. Zak Crawley said England players were thrilled watching the last-hour hitting. He added there was no talk of a declaration, just a simple plan: go hard and make every run count. England were ready to bowl if a wicket fell, but the extra runs made it even better.&nbsp;

By the end of the day, Root had moved to 135 not out, while Archer made a career-best 32. Their stand of 61 was England’s first tenth-wicket fifty in Australia since 1982 and their first in any Ashes Test since 2023.

England walked off the field in Brisbane feeling they had taken control of the final hour on day one of the second Ashes Test. Joe Root and Jofra Archer turned a tense situation into a strong finish, pushing England to 325 for 9 by stumps and lifting the mood inside the dressing room. Root was unbeaten on 111 when the clock hit the scheduled close of play, with England at 269 for 9. It reminded many of the 2023 Edgbaston Test, when Ben Stokes declared with Root on 118 to have a short burst at Australia before stumps. This time, though, England chose to bat on, especially because the pink ball under lights could’ve given their bowlers a chance later. Also read | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli: 5 players with highest individual scores at Vizag Some, including David Warner on TV commentary, expected a declaration. But Australia were in no hurry either. Steven Smith slowed the game down, and Root even had a word with the umpire as field changes and delays kept happening. Then came the shift. Root and Archer sensed an opening and attacked. They added 56 runs in the last six overs, swinging the momentum England’s way. Archer hit Boland for a massive six first ball, then lofted Mitchell Starc down the ground. Root joined in with a sharp reverse scoop as the partnership raced ahead. By the end of the day, Root had moved to 135 not out, while Archer made a career-best 32. Their stand of 61 was England’s first tenth-wicket fifty in Australia since 1982 and their first in any Ashes Test since 2023. Starc, who took six wickets, looked frustrated with the old pink ball and with how Australia handled the final phase. He said it felt like bowling with a tennis ball and hoped they could wrap up the innings early on day two. Zak Crawley said England players were thrilled watching the last-hour hitting. He added there was no talk of a declaration, just a simple plan: go hard and make every run count. England were ready to bowl if a wicket fell, but the extra runs made it even better.

By the end of the day, Root had moved to 135 not out, while Archer made a career-best 32. Their stand of 61 was England’s first tenth-wicket fifty in Australia since 1982 and their first in any Ashes Test since 2023.

Ashes 2025-26: Zak Crawley praises England’s late surge as Root and Archer shine in Brisbane

Australia left veteran spinner Nathan Lyon for the second consecutive pink-ball Test and the spinner was not happy about it at all. Lyon, after sitting out in Jamaica earlier this year, was replaced by Michael Neser for the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane. Australia, led by Mitchell Starc, did well as a unit until the unbeaten last wicket stand of 61 runs between Joe Root and Jofra Archer gave England the final honours on a see-saw day.<h2>Lyon not happy about being benched for second consecutive pink-ball Test</h2>"Absolutely filthy," were Lyon's comments on Channel 7 about being informed about the missing the Test. "To be honest I haven't really sat down with Ronnie [Andrew McDonald] or George yet. I'm letting things settle down in my own head and trying to make sure that I'm, as I said, doing whatever I can to make sure the guys out in the middle representing Australia do the right thing and get the right result for us."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-auction-check-full-list-of-retained-players-slots-available-and-purse-left-for-kkr-csk-srh-lsg-dc-rcb-rr-gt-pbks-mi-1764855932173">IPL 2026 auction: Check full list of retained players &amp; purse left for each team</a>Australia went for all pace attack for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss.<h2>Root ends century wait in Australia</h2>England's innings was highlighted by veteran batter Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia after four tours, 16 Test and 30 innings. The ace batter remained not out on 135 to take England to 325/9 at the stumps. Root held up one end and his partnerships with Crawley (117 runs for third wicket), Brook (54 runs for fourth wicket) and Archer were key to keep Australia at bay despite Mitchell Starc another five-wicket haul. Starc finished the day with 6/71 and also went past Wasim Akram for most Test wickets by a left-arm pacer.

Australia went for all pace attack, replacing Lyon with Michael Neser, for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss.

Australia left veteran spinner Nathan Lyon for the second consecutive pink-ball Test and the spinner was not happy about it at all. Lyon, after sitting out in Jamaica earlier this year, was replaced by Michael Neser for the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane. Australia, led by Mitchell Starc, did well as a unit until the unbeaten last wicket stand of 61 runs between Joe Root and Jofra Archer gave England the final honours on a see-saw day. Lyon not happy about being benched for second consecutive pink-ball Test "Absolutely filthy," were Lyon's comments on Channel 7 about being informed about the missing the Test. "To be honest I haven't really sat down with Ronnie [Andrew McDonald] or George yet. I'm letting things settle down in my own head and trying to make sure that I'm, as I said, doing whatever I can to make sure the guys out in the middle representing Australia do the right thing and get the right result for us." Also Read - IPL 2026 auction: Check full list of retained players & purse left for each team Australia went for all pace attack for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss. Root ends century wait in Australia England's innings was highlighted by veteran batter Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia after four tours, 16 Test and 30 innings. The ace batter remained not out on 135 to take England to 325/9 at the stumps. Root held up one end and his partnerships with Crawley (117 runs for third wicket), Brook (54 runs for fourth wicket) and Archer were key to keep Australia at bay despite Mitchell Starc another five-wicket haul. Starc finished the day with 6/71 and also went past Wasim Akram for most Test wickets by a left-arm pacer.

Australia went for all pace attack, replacing Lyon with Michael Neser, for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss.

Ashes 2025-26: Lyon 'letting things settle down in my own head' after being dropped from pink-ball Brisbane Test

Left-arm pacers are unique and have troubled batters across generations. Let’s take a look at the top five left-arm pacers with the most wickets in Test cricket.

Left-arm pacers are unique and have troubled batters across generations. Let’s take a look at the top five left-arm pacers with the most wickets in Test cricket.

5 left-arm pacers with most Test wickets: Starc goes past Akram, check others

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