England captain Ben Stokes has urged his team to seize a golden opportunity and “write our own history” as the 2025 Ashes series begins in Australia. The English side has not won a series Down Under in 15 years and has struggled in 13 of the last 15 Tests, with two draws.
Despite Australia missing key pace bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for the first Test in Perth, Stokes acknowledged that beating a “seriously good” side will be extremely challenging. However, he remains optimistic about England’s chances over the next two-and-a-half months.
“Everyone knows the record of England in Ashes history in Australia isn’t great,” Stokes said. “But we’ve got an opportunity to make history. Our goal is to return to England in January as Ashes winners.”
England announced a 12-man squad for the opening Test, with the final selection to be made at the toss. Much will depend on veteran paceman Mark Wood, who is recovering from a hamstring concern after knee surgery earlier this year. Stokes confirmed Wood is fit and ready, describing him as “flying” and capable of making an immediate impact.
If Wood is available, England could field a pace-heavy attack featuring Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse. Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir remains an option, despite being sent to the England Lions side for the warm-up match. Stokes explained that Bashir’s temporary assignment was a deliberate tactic to give him more bowling opportunities.
“Bashir was always going to be in the 12,” Stokes added. “It was about letting him bowl more in practice and gaining match experience before the Test.”
The first Test in Perth will set the tone for the series, which moves on to Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. England’s leadership emphasizes discipline, focus, and resilience as they face a formidable Australian squad, even in the absence of key pacers.
Stokes stressed that defeating Australia is never easy, but with preparation, strong teamwork, and tactical planning, England has a real chance to challenge the hosts. Fans and analysts will closely watch the pace attack and strategic decisions, which may prove decisive in this high-stakes series.
With the Ashes considered one of cricket’s most historic contests, England aims to overturn past struggles and claim a rare victory on Australian soil. The series promises intense competition, tactical battles, and moments that could redefine England’s cricketing legacy abroad.
