Cricket Australia (CA) has announced the eagerly anticipated schedule for the 2025-26 Ashes series, revealing a reshuffled lineup of venues that places the Gabba’s day-night Test as the second in the series, following an opener in Perth. Under the new agreement, Adelaide will now host the third Test as a day game, cementing its place in the pre-Christmas slot for the next seven years.
The series will kick off at Optus Stadium in Perth from November 21-25. The action then moves to Brisbane, where the Gabba will host a pink-ball Test under lights from December 4-8. The third Test in Adelaide will be played as a day game from December 17-21, maintaining its reputation as a holiday crowd favourite. The traditional Boxing Day Test will follow at the MCG on December 26, with the series concluding in Sydney from January 4-8.
Adelaide’s New Role in the Ashes
Adelaide, typically home to Australia’s first-ever day-night Test in 2015 and host to two previous Ashes day-night games, has transitioned to the third Test slot. The move comes as part of a CA agreement with South Australia’s government, designed to attract tourists and increase local engagement during the pre-Christmas period.
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Brisbane’s Day-Night Test: A First for the Ashes
The Gabba, historically the opening venue for the Ashes series, will host the second Test as a day-night match for the first time since 1982-83, marking a significant change. The venue has hosted three prior day-night Tests, most recently witnessing a memorable West Indies victory in January. However, with redevelopment plans for the 2032 Olympics looming, the Gabba’s future remains uncertain. Next year’s Ashes Test could be the venue’s final one, as it’s currently excluded from the 2026-27 calendar and may become unavailable by 2030.
Debate Over the Gabba’s Role as Ashes Opener
The decision to forego the Gabba as the series opener has stirred mixed reactions. While some former players, including Shane Watson, have expressed a desire to keep the Gabba as the first venue, CA has leaned towards Optus Stadium, given Australia’s recent winning record there. The Australian team appears comfortable with Perth as the season’s starting point, where they have enjoyed consecutive opening Test victories in the past two summers.
Pink Ball at the Gabba: A Divisive Decision
The use of the pink ball at the Gabba has sparked discussion, especially among Australian bowlers who feel it performs best at Adelaide Oval, where conditions suit its characteristics. Unlike Adelaide, the Gabba’s pitch can soften the pink ball over time, sometimes causing the game to slow down. However, with Australia’s lineup of formidable fast bowlers, the Gabba’s day-night match is set to bring a unique twist to this iconic rivalry.
As CA’s updated schedule shapes a new Ashes landscape, both fans and players are preparing for a series marked by change, historic venues and unforgettable battles under Australian skies.
