The story of the Ashes played in Australia rarely changes. The home team arrives with discipline, confidence, and a fast-bowling unit that knows exactly how to use the extra pace and bounce. England has repeatedly faced the same problem: how do you survive Australia’s relentless quick bowlers across five Tests?
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To understand whether Australia can continue this dominance in the 2025–26 Ashes, the last two home series give us the clearest answer.
2017–18 Ashes: Fast Bowling That Set the Tone
In the 2017–18 series, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were the biggest headaches for England.
- Cummins: 23 wickets, 43 maidens
- Starc: 22 wickets, 32 maidens
They bowled with constant pressure and smart plans. England’s batters struggled to settle, and mistakes came quickly. Australia controlled the entire series and won 4–0, with one Test ending in a draw.
2021–22 Ashes: A Repeat of Total Control
Four years later, the script remained almost identical.
- Cummins: 21 wickets, 31 maidens
- Starc: 19 wickets, 32 maidens
The pair managed all the big moments slowing scoring, breaking partnerships, and winning sessions. Again, Australia dominated the series 4–0, with one draw.
The common theme in both series? Consistency and complete command.
Why Australia Keeps Winning the Ashes at Home
1. Depth in Fast Bowling
Australia almost always fields two world-class fast bowlers in peak form. The Cummins–Starc combination has been one of their biggest strengths, providing accuracy, pace, and pressure throughout the series.
2. Home Conditions Built for Pace
Pitches in Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide naturally support bounce and movement. These conditions suit Australia’s quicks far more than England’s. Visitors rarely get this type of assistance at home.
3. Experience and Familiarity
Australia’s core players understand local conditions deeply lengths, weather impact, pitch behaviour across days. That knowledge helps them take control of key phases.
4. England’s Ongoing Issues with High Pace
Historically, England’s batting lineup has struggled against fast bowling in Australia. One short spell of pressure often leads to collapses.
Will Australia Dominate the 2025–26 Ashes?
Based on the last two home Ashes, Australia enters the 2025–26 series as the clear favourite. If Cummins and Starc maintain fitness and rhythm, they remain the top wicket-taking threats. Combined with strong home advantage and a settled lineup, Australia is well-positioned to continue their winning pattern.
For England to break this cycle, they will need more than small improvements they will need a complete shift in approach.
