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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Rob Smyth

Six balls in Perth to Harry Brook’s drop: 10 moments that decided the Ashes

Ben Stokes is run out at Brisbane.
Ben Stokes was run out at Brisbane when England were in position to take complete control. Photograph: Hollie Adams/Reuters

The dates come in

It’s not a complete exaggeration to say that Australia won the 2025-26 Ashes on 15 October 2024. That was when Cricket Australia announced the schedule for the series: Perth first, Brisbane second. Starting the series on the bounciest, most Kryptonicious pitches in Australia – and the only major venues where England haven’t won a Test since 1986-87 – was a masterstroke, especially as Australia also had a day-night advantage at the Gabba. By the time England reached more batting-friendly climes, many of their batters already had scrambled brains.

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