Ashes 2025: Tensions Rise as Warner and Broad Trade Barbs

Brisbane, Australia — Oct 15 (AP): The Ashes series is fast approaching, and the customary pre-series verbal exchanges have begun between former players of Australia and England, turning the spotlight onto one of cricket's longest-running rivalries.

Former Australian opening batter David Warner set the tone this week, asserting that while Australia aims to win the Ashes outright, England will be chasing what he termed a "moral victory" through its aggressive "Bazball" style of play in test cricket.

Warner confidently forecasted a 4-0 victory for Australia, conceding only the potential for one draw due to weather conditions. However, he allowed that England might claim a test win if Australia's captain, Pat Cummins, were sidelined by injury.

On the English side, veteran pace bowler Stuart Broad responded by critiquing the current Australian squad, suggesting it's the weakest since the 2010-11 team, which was the last to lose an Ashes series on home soil.

"It's probably the worst Australian team since 2010 when England last won, and it's the best English team since 2010. This isn't just my opinion, it's based on factual evidence," Broad told a BBC podcast, adding that these conditions set the stage for an "exciting Ashes series."

Broad's remarks struck a sensitive chord in Australia, recalling the only Ashes series defeat at home since reclaiming the urn in England back in 1989. Historically, Australia's domestic record in Ashes series has been formidable with 13 wins, two draws, and no defeats since then.

The Australians have maintained possession of the Ashes since the 2017 series, with victories at home and drawn series on English soil. The upcoming 2025-26 five-test Ashes series is scheduled to commence on November 21 in Perth, Western Australia.

Reflecting on past series, Broad highlighted issues in the Australian camp, such as uncertainties in their batting lineup and concerns over Cummins' fitness, as opportunities for England to capitalize on.

"When was the last time we had discussions on who would bat for Australia at positions 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, or who the extra bowler would be?" Broad noted. "The typical narrative has usually been about Australia's consistent and strong selection, particularly in their bowling lineup."

Back in the 2010-11 series, Australia faced challenges replacing legends like Glenn McGrath, Shane Warne, Matthew Hayden, and Justin Langer, and they struggled with their bowling attack.

"There was frequent rotation in their seamers, and a mix and match feel to their batters, which no one can deny made it their weakest lineup since 2010," Broad elaborated.

England's optimism is bolstered by paceman Jofra Archer's return, the resurgence of Mark Wood, and having Joe Root as the No. 1 test batsman in the world, even though he has yet to score a century in Australia.

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