Brisbane to not host Ashes opener for the first time in 42 years: Report

In what’s set to come as a major relief for England, the Gabba in Brisbane is set to not host the opening Test of an Ashes series in Australia for the first time since 1982. 

Telegraph reports that it’s almost certain that the 2025/26 Ashes will kick-off in Perth, at the Optus Stadium, with the venue believed to have signed a deal to host the first Test of the next six Australian home summers.

England have a dreadful record at the Gabba, where they have not won a single Test this century. The Three Lions’ last victory at the venue came back in 1986. They’ve since managed to avoid defeat at the Gabba only twice: in 1998 and then in 2010. 

Across the last three Ashes series in Australia, England are 0-13 and in each of the three tours, they've started the series with a heavy defeat at the Gabba.

That being said, the Optus Stadium in Perth is also a fortress of sorts for the Aussies, who have won each of the four matches they’ve played at the venue. 

Notably, the Optus Stadium will also be hosting the series opener between Australia and India later this year.

England are yet to play a Test at the Optus Stadium. The last time they played an Ashes Test in Perth was in 2017, where they lost by an inns & 41 runs at the WACA.

If you’ve not downloaded the Cricket.com app yet, you’re missing out — big time. Play Fantasy on Cricket.com NOW! Download the App here.