With the Ashes 2025-26 just around the corner, Australia is gearing up to host the iconic series from November 21, 2025, to January 8, 2026. But heading into the contest, the Aussies have a problem they didn’t want, injuries in their pace attack. And that, according to former England captain Michael Vaughan, could tilt the opening Test in England’s favour.
Australia will also be without their regular skipper due to injury, meaning Steve Smith is set to lead the side in Perth. Meanwhile, England arrived hungry, determined to end their long drought in Australia, their last series win Down Under came in 2010–11 under Andrew Strauss. Under Ben Stokes, they believe they’re finally equipped to challenge again.
Michael Vaughan’s Bold Ashes Prediction
Never one to shy away from strong opinions, Vaughan shared his Ashes forecast on social media. He predicted the series would finish 2-2, but more importantly, tipped England to win the opening Test in Perth.
His reasoning was simple: “As long as B Stokes stays fit I think this series is going to be 2-2… England to win in Perth with no Pat or Josh…” Vaughan posted on X. He added that his prediction stands as long as there are no more injury setbacks before the first Test.
Why Vaughan Fancies England in Perth
Perth is known for its fast, bouncy pitch, perfect for genuine quicks. That’s where Vaughan believes England hold the edge. With Jofra Archer and Mark Wood both capable of consistently hitting the high-90s (mph), England suddenly looked more threatening in conditions that traditionally favour Australia.
The hosts, on the other hand, are heading into the series without two of their biggest weapons Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Their absence significantly dents Australia’s firepower, especially at a venue that historically rewards top-quality pace bowling.
With England’s quicks fit and firing, and Australia scrambling to fill major gaps, Vaughan sees a real opening for Stokes’ side to strike early and build confidence.
If Vaughan’s prediction comes true, the Ashes could be in for one of its most dramatic starts in years and the momentum swing from a Perth win could set the tone for a thriller of a series.
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AUS vs ENG: Head To Head of matches played In Perth
| Season | Venue | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 1970–71 | WACA | England |
| 1978–79 | WACA | Australia |
| 1981–82 | WACA | Australia |
| 1986–87 | WACA | Australia |
| 2002–03 | WACA | Australia |
| 2006–07 | WACA | Australia |
| 2010–11 | WACA | England |
| 2013–14 | WACA | Australia |
| 2017–18 | WACA | Australia |
Ashes 2025-26 Squads
Australia: Steven Smith, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Jake Weatherald, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Michael Neser, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, Nathan Lyon, and Mitchell Starc.
England: Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Ollie Pope, Jamie Smith, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir, Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Josh Tongue, and Mark Wood.
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