The Ashes 2025-26 have come and gone, but the drama, the triumphs, and the controversies will linger in cricketing folklore. Australia may have retained the urn, but the series was far from a one-sided affair—it was a rollercoaster of individual brilliance, tactical blunders, and moments that left us all scratching our heads. Here’s our unique take on the series, complete with awards that celebrate the highs, the lows, and the downright bizarre.
Player of the Series: Mitchell Starc
While Travis Head’s three centuries were nothing short of heroic, it’s hard to look past Mitchell Starc’s match-winning performances in the first two Tests. With 18 wickets across Perth and Brisbane, Starc channeled his inner Mitchell Johnson, delivering raw pace and precision that left England reeling. His 77 with the bat at the Gabba was the cherry on top, especially considering he was filling in for the absent Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. At 37 by the next Ashes, Starc isn’t just aging—he’s evolving into a more lethal force. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Starc maintain this form for another two years, or will Father Time finally catch up?
Moment of the Series: Joe Root’s Century
In a series marred by inconsistent performances from both sides, Joe Root’s century on the opening day of the second Test stood out as a beacon of class. The day-night atmosphere at the Gabba amplified the tension, and when Root finally reached his hundred, the eruption of joy from the English supporters was palpable. And this is the part most people miss: Root’s reaction—a simple shrug—spoke volumes about his humility in a tour where most moments were instantly forgettable.
Most Valuable Back Spasm: Usman Khawaja
Usman Khawaja’s back injury in Perth became the turning point of the series. His absence paved the way for Travis Head’s promotion to opener, a move that left Ben Stokes “shellshocked” and England’s campaign in tatters. Head went on to score two more centuries, topping the run charts and becoming the face of Australia’s victory. But the question remains: Was Khawaja’s injury a blessing in disguise for Australia, or a missed opportunity for England to exploit a weakened top order?
Arrive, Raise Hell, and Leave Award: Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins’ Ashes campaign was as brief as it was impactful. After a miraculous six-week rehab from a back injury, Cummins bowled magnificently in Adelaide, leading Australia to an urn-clinching victory. Yet, his absence in the final two Tests and doubts over his T20 World Cup participation raise concerns. Is Cummins’ body capable of handling the rigors of modern cricket, or are we witnessing the beginning of the end for one of the game’s greatest fast bowlers?
Forgotten Man: Shoaib Bashir
Shoaib Bashir’s Ashes journey started with promise but ended in uncertainty. Overlooked in favor of part-time spinner Will Jacks in Adelaide, Bashir’s Test career now hangs in the balance at just 22. Did England mismanage his talent, or was he simply out of his depth in Australian conditions?
Achievement in Technology: Snicko’s Fall from Grace
Snicko’s performance in this series was nothing short of disastrous. From Alex Carey’s reprieve in Adelaide to the final-day controversy involving Brydon Carse and Jake Weatherald, the technology’s reliability was called into question. Is Snicko still fit for purpose, or is it time for cricket to explore more advanced alternatives?
Mastermind Superfan: Steve Smith
Steve Smith’s preoccupation with Monty Panesar’s Mastermind appearance was one of the series’ most bizarre subplots. Why was Smith so rattled by Panesar’s comments on Sandpapergate? Did Panesar inadvertently become England’s secret weapon, or was Smith’s reaction just a distraction from the real issues?
Services to Scooter Safety: England’s Off-Field Blunder
England’s escooter escapade in Brisbane provided the local media with ample ammunition. The subsequent police crackdown on helmetless riders was both amusing and ironic. Was this a harmless mistake, or a symptom of England’s broader disciplinary issues on tour?
Contribution to Australian Tourism: Noosa’s Moment in the Sun
England’s mid-series break in Noosa became an unexpected global advertisement for the Queensland beach town. While the players enjoyed golf, pubs, and beaches, questions arose about their preparation for the scorching conditions ahead. Did Noosa’s allure distract England from their ultimate goal, or was it simply a case of making the most of a losing battle?
Longest Grass Award: Matt Page
Melbourne curator Matt Page’s decision to leave 10mm of grass on the Boxing Day pitch resulted in a seam-bowling spectacle—36 wickets in six sessions and England’s first win in Australia in 15 years. Was Page’s pitch preparation a masterstroke or a miscalculation that cost Cricket Australia £5 million?
Final Thought: What’s your take? Was this Ashes series defined by Australia’s dominance, England’s missed opportunities, or the off-field dramas that stole the spotlight? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your controversial opinions!
