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The anticipation for the 2025-26 Men’s Ashes series has reached fever pitch, with ticket sales smashing all previous records on the very first day of pre-sale. More than 220,000 tickets were snapped up by eager fans, more than doubling the previous single-day record and signalling an extraordinary summer of cricket ahead. The surge in demand not only underscores the enduring appeal of the Ashes rivalry but also highlights the pent-up excitement following years of travel restrictions and limited international sporting events.
Fans storm the gates as ticket sales predict a record breaking rush in the stands
The opening day of the Ashes pre-sale saw unprecedented demand, with the previous record of 111,741 tickets—set during the 2017-18 Ashes—surpassed within hours and ultimately obliterated by the day’s end. By mid-afternoon, over 160,000 tickets had been sold, and the tally soared past 220,000 by close of business, even before tickets for matches in New South Wales and Western Australia had gone on sale.
The frenzy was particularly intense for marquee fixtures: only single tickets remained for the opening two days at the Gabba, which will host its first-ever day-night Ashes Test, and more than 55,000 seats were sold for the iconic Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Technical issues in Western Australia momentarily slowed sales, but not enough to dampen the overall momentum. Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg called the demand “remarkable,” urging fans to secure their seats as some days are expected to sell out entirely.
This overwhelming response comes as Australia prepare to host a full international summer, with visits from South Africa and India’s men’s teams, as well as a multi-format women’s series against India. The return of overseas supporters—especially the Barmy Army—after COVID-19 travel restrictions is expected to add even more energy to the stands.
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Ashes odyssey of five Tests, five iconic venues
The 2025-26 Ashes series promises a truly national spectacle, with Australia’s men’s team set to play in every state and territory for the first time. The five-Test showdown between Australia and England will unfold across the country’s most storied cricket grounds, each offering its own unique atmosphere and history:
- West Test, Perth Stadium (November 21-25, 2025): The series opens in Perth for the first time, marking a historic shift from the traditional Brisbane start.
- Pink Ball Test, The Gabba, Brisbane (December 4-8, 2025): The Gabba hosts its inaugural Ashes Day-night Test, adding a new dimension to the rivalry.
- Christmas Test, Adelaide Oval (December 17-21, 2025): Cricket fans will flock to Adelaide for a festive showdown just days before Christmas.
- Boxing Day Test, MCG, Melbourne (December 26-30, 2025): The legendary Boxing Day Test at the MCG remains a highlight, with over 100,000 fans expected to pack the stands.
- New Year Test, SCG, Sydney (January 4-8, 2026): The series concludes at the SCG with the annual Pink Test, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and charitable focus.
