2025 Ashes: Stokes leads pace heavy England squad down-under

England announced a 16-man squad for the 2025–26 Ashes series in Australia, set to commence on November 21 in Perth. This marks England’s first Ashes tour Down Under since 2017–18.

Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts and Ben Stokes form a portent pace battery, if they remain fit. It is probably the most hostile group of fast bowlers England have sent down under since John Snow and Bob Willis were at the forefront of victory in 1970-71.

Key Changes

• Vice-Captaincy Shift: Harry Brook replaces Ollie Pope as vice-captain, reflecting a shift in leadership roles.

• Squad Inclusions: Mark Wood and Jofra Archer return after recovering from injuries.

• Spin Options: Shoaib Bashir leads the spin department, with Will Jacks providing additional support.

• Batting Lineup: Jacob Bethell, a promising all-rounder, has been included, potentially impacting the middle-order composition.

Sept 2025.