Published on: Nov 6, 2025 12:46 pm IST|Updated on: Nov 6, 2025 12:52 pm IST
The Ashes is more than just a cricket series, it’s a legacy, a battle of pride, and a stage where careers are defined. As Australia and England gear up for the 2025 edition of this historic contest, the spotlight will be on some players who carry the weight of expectation, redemption, and ambition. With the first Test set to begin on November 21 at the Optus Stadium in Perth, here are five players who could shape the narrative of Ashes 2025 down under.
Cameron Green’s elevation to No. 3 in Australia’s batting order is one of the most talked-about moves ahead of the Ashes. Once seen as a promising all-rounder, Green is now being groomed as a specialist batter, a future mainstay in Australia’s top order. His promotion came during the Caribbean tour earlier this year, where he struggled to adapt to the demands of the position. However, playing at home offers a different challenge and a familiar comfort zone.
Green’s tall frame and solid temperament give him the tools to succeed, but the Ashes is a cauldron of pressure. With Marnus Labuschagne’s form fluctuating and Steve Smith taking on leadership duties, Green’s role becomes even more pivotal. Australia has invested heavily in him, and this series could be the turning point in his Test career. If he can absorb pressure and deliver consistent performances, Green may well justify the faith placed in him and emerge as Australia’s next permanent no 3.
Joe Root has done it all in Test cricket—over 13,500 runs, 39 centuries, and a reputation as one of England’s finest batters. Yet, one glaring omission remains: a Test century in Australia. As he possibly embarks on his final Ashes tour Down Under, Root will be desperate to tick that box and leave a lasting mark.
Root’s role in England’s middle order is as crucial as ever. With younger batters like Jamie Smith and Zak Crawley still finding their feet, Root’s experience and composure will be the glue that holds England’s innings together. His ability to play spin and pace with equal finesse makes him a threat, but Australian conditions have historically tested his patience and technique.
This series isn’t just about runs for Root, it’s about legacy. A century in Australia would be a fitting farewell chapter in his Ashes story. Expect Root to bring his trademark grit and elegance to the crease, with a burning desire to conquer the one frontier that has eluded him.
Few bowlers have rattled Australian batters like Jofra Archer did in his Ashes debut in 2019. His raw pace, bounce, and ability to generate discomfort made him an instant fan favorite. After injury halting his career with start and stop mode, Archer is back, and the timing couldn’t be better.
Australian batters have shown vulnerability against high-quality pace, as seen in recent series with Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, and Jasprit Bumrah. Archer fits that mold perfectly. His swift action and ability to bowl bouncers at will make him a nightmare on fast, bouncy Australian tracks. With venues like Perth and Brisbane offering ideal conditions for his style, Archer could be England’s trump card.
Archer, combined with Mark Wood, could be as lethal a pairing as any one in the past who has played on the Australian soil. His battle with the likes of Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, and Cameron Green could define the series.
Usman Khawaja’s Test career has been a tale of resilience, heartbreaking ignorance, and understated brilliance. Now approaching the twilight of his career, Khawaja finds himself under the scanner once again. His recent form at home has been patchy, and his Caribbean tour earlier this year was underwhelming, barring a century in the final Test.
Khawaja’s role as an opener is vital, especially with David Warner retired and Australia searching for stability at the top. His ability to blunt the new ball and build partnerships will be key against England’s swing and seam attack. However, he’ll need to rediscover his fluency and assertiveness, particularly in the early overs.
The first Test at Optus Stadium in Perth could set the tone for Khawaja’s series. A strong start would not only silence critics but also reaffirm his place in Australia’s red-ball setup. For a player who’s seen highs and lows, Ashes 2025 offers one last chance to script a memorable chapter.
Ben Stokes has redefined England’s Test approach with his aggressive leadership and fearless mindset. At home, he has been praised as a demigod, and his captaincy in familiar conditions has yielded impressive results. Away from home, however, the numbers tell a different story, with just 11 wins in 21 away Tests as captain. The Ashes 2025 could be the ultimate test of his leadership credentials.
Stokes’ influence goes beyond tactics. He’s England’s heartbeat—capable of turning games with bat, ball, or sheer willpower. But in Australia, he’ll need to be more than inspirational. His batting form must be consistent, and his bowling workload must be managed smartly. With England embracing the Bazball philosophy, Stokes must strike a balance between aggression and pragmatism.
The pressure will be immense. Every decision, from team selection to field placements, will be put under the scanner. But if Stokes can lead England to a series win in Australia, it would elevate his captaincy legacy to legendary status. Expect him to be in the thick of action, rallying his troops and delivering clutch performances.
Ashes 2025 promises high drama, fierce battles, and unforgettable moments. While both squads are packed with talent, these five players—Cameron Green, Joe Root, Jofra Archer, Usman Khawaja, and Ben Stokes—carry unique storylines that could shape the series. Whether it’s Green’s rise, Root’s redemption, Archer’s pace, Khawaja’s resolve, or Stokes’ leadership, the stage is set for a cricketing spectacle. We are excited for Ashes 2025 to get underway. Are you?