Ashes 2025 1st Test: England wins toss, opts to bat first against Australia

By Admin

21 Nov, 2025

The Ashes 2025 series kicked off in style on Friday, November 21, at Perth Stadium, with England captain Ben Stokes winning the toss and choosing to bat first under clear blue skies. The decision set the stage for an exciting opening day as both teams entered the contest with bold strategies and fresh faces ready to make their mark.

England strengthened their pace attack for the first Test, opting for an all-out fast-bowling unit. Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir was left out of the starting XI, with Brydon Carse chosen to bolster the speed-heavy lineup. Speaking at the toss, Stokes emphasized the importance of laying a solid foundation with the bat. “We’ll try and get some runs on the board and then see where we are then,” he said. “We’ve got to clear all of what we want to achieve out here in Australia, it starts today.”

On the Australian side, Steve Smith stepped in as captain for the injured Pat Cummins, bringing confidence and experience to the role. Despite losing the toss, Smith remained optimistic about bowling conditions. “Hopefully it seams all over the place this morning. I think the cracks will come into play, they seem to every year,” Smith noted. “If we get the ball in the right areas this morning, there’ll be enough there for sure.”

Australia also made headlines by awarding first Test caps to two standout performers. Specialist opener Jake Weatherald earned his place at the top of the order, while fast bowler Brendan Doggett was rewarded for his exceptional form in the Sheffield Shield, where he claimed 13 wickets in just two matches. Doggett’s smooth rhythm and impressive skill set drew praise from senior pacer Mitchell Starc. “He sort of glides through the crease, makes it look pretty easy,” Starc said. “He’s got some air speed, some great skills, swing and seam, and he’s coming off a hot streak. Hopefully that continues this week.”

With both teams showcasing strong lineups and strategic intent, the first Test promises a thrilling start to one of cricket’s most iconic rivalries.

Squads

Australia: Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett

England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Mark Wood