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As the countdown continues toward the Ashes 2025–26, cricket fans across the globe are eagerly weighing in on predictions for one of the sport’s most iconic rivalries. With the series set to begin on November 21 in Perth, anticipation is growing over whether England can finally break their long-standing drought on Australian soil. Adding to the debate, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has shared his thoughts on how the series might unfold—and while he expects England to show fight, he remains unconvinced about their chances of winning the urn.
England’s long struggle in Australia
England’s recent record in Australia makes for grim reading. They have lost the last three Ashes series Down Under by a combined score of 13-0, failing to win a single Test in Australia since the 2010–11 series. In fact, England have won only one Ashes series in Australia since 1987, a statistic that underlines the scale of the challenge Ben Stokes’ side will face.
Despite this, many believe the upcoming series offers England their best shot in over 15 years to reclaim the urn on Australian soil. Their aggressive and fearless style under the Stokes–McCullum leadership has transformed their Test cricket identity, giving hope to supporters that this time may be different.
Kevin Pietersen predicts the scoreline of Ashes 2025-26
Speaking to Brad Haddin on the Willow Talk Cricket Podcast, Pietersen shared a realistic but hopeful assessment of England’s prospects. The former superstar batter acknowledged the difficulty of winning in Australia while still backing England to break their long Test-win drought.
“I think it’s hard for England to win in Australia, very hard,” Pietersen admitted, emphasising the challenge posed by Australian conditions, crowds, and bowling attacks.
He further added that while he believes England have the firepower to win a match, expecting them to clinch the entire series may be too optimistic.
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“It’s hard for them to win a whole series out there. Can they win a Test match? I think they can with the way they play—if everything falls into place, for sure,” he said.
However, Pietersen ultimately placed Australia slightly ahead when predicting the final outcome.
“But it will be hard to win the whole series, so I have Australia up—but I think it might be tightly contested,” Pietersen concluded.
His comments reflect a sentiment shared by many analysts: England’s bold approach could land them blows, but beating Australia over five Tests remains a monumental task.
A more competitive Ashes on the horizon
While Pietersen stopped short of predicting an England series win, his belief that the contest will be closer than recent editions adds intrigue to the buildup. The fast, bouncy pitches in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide will test England’s technique and temperament, but their aggressive philosophy could also create unexpected opportunities.
As both teams prepare for another chapter in cricket’s most storied rivalry, one thing is clear—expectations, excitement and emotions will be running high. Whether Australia maintain their dominance or England finally script a famous revival will be revealed over five hard-fought Tests.
Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: James Anderson reveals roadmap for English bowlers to sizzle in Australia
