Australia or England? Monty Panesar predicts the score of Ashes 2025-2026

With the Ashes 2025–26 just around the corner, former England spinner Monty Panesar has fueled the debate by making a bold prediction on how the five-match Test series will unfold. The Ashes, which starts in Perth on November 21, remains cricket’s most iconic and hotly contested rivalry. As both teams prepare for another grueling battle on Australian soil, Panesar believes England can have the upper hand, especially given current concerns over the balance and form of the Australian squad.

Monty Panesar doubts the strength of the Australian selection

Speaking SENWA breakfastPanesar openly addressed what he sees as vulnerabilities in the Australian setup. Of Pat Cummins And Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to injury concerns, Panesar suggested Australia’s pace arsenal looks somewhat depleted compared to recent years.

“If you look at Australia, there is no Pat Cummins and no Josh Hazlewood. They have an opener, a replacement for David Warner, but we don’t know how he is going to do it,” Panesar said, referring to Australia’s transition at the top of the next order David Warner‘s pension.

Panesar also expressed concern over the veteran opener’s form Usman Khawajawho has struggled for consistency in recent seasons.

“Usman Khawaja hasn’t been great in recent years, let’s be honest,” he declared, suggesting instability at the top could put pressure on Australia early on.

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Panesar predicts Ashes score 2025-2026

Panesar believes England have a real chance to dominate the opening exchanges of the series – something they have rarely done in Australia. He outlined how a strong start could shift the momentum dramatically in England’s favour.

“I just think England are tense here. If England win the first Test match, they can win the series,” Panesar said confidently.

He expects England’s aggressive style Ben Stokes And Brendon McCullum to be impactful on Australian pitches, especially in conditions that promote fast, fearless cricket. Panesar detailed his predicted score and said he expects England to make rapid progress before Australia hits back.

“I think they (England) will win in Brisbane, Adelaide will probably be Australia, Melbourne, I think it might be Australia again,” predicted Panesar.

He believes the series can be leveled 2-2 heading into the final Test in Sydney, setting the stage for an exciting decider. Props to England’s young off-spinner Shoaib Bashir To shine in Sydney’s traditionally spin-friendly conditions, Panesar concluded the visitors could clinch the series.

“If the two of them go into Sydney, it will be the battle of the spinners. And who knows, Shoaib Bashir might come into his own there. I believe it will be 3-2 or 3-1 in England,” he said, making a bold call that has already sparked debate among fans.” Panesar further added.

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