We’re diving into the excitement of the third – and possibly the deciding – Ashes Test showdown set at the iconic WACA from 14 December to 18 December.
The Ashes series moves to Perth, with the home side aiming to clinch an unbeatable series advantage over opponents grappling with challenges both on and off the field. Despite Australia’s recent winning streak, expect a shake-up in their lineup for this crucial match.
England came into Adelaide with high hopes but ultimately their nerves and fragile composure let them down on the final day. Now, their journey to bounce back begins here.
Australia v England | 14 December – 18 December | The WACA, Perth
Match Winner Odds
Australia 5/10 | Draw 7/2 | England 15/4
Australia
Mitchell Marsh joins the squad and is likely to be picked over Peter Handscomb, who has struggled with the bat this series. Marsh’s all-rounder skills will ease the burden on the fast bowlers – Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins – providing crucial rotation with shorter spells and fresh energy.
Hazlewood and Cummins have already twice dismissed England captain Joe Root this series, and they’ll be keen to continue exploiting England’s batting vulnerabilities. Cameron Bancroft will look to build on the promise he showed earlier, hoping to secure his spot ahead of Matt Renshaw.
Australia’s physical strength on the field is expected to test the mental resilience of the English team, particularly with the recent suspension of Ben Duckett and the ongoing Ben Stokes controversy impacting the visitors.
England
Critics, including former greats, have questioned England’s XI selections. While Kevin Pietersen suggests Alastair Cook might be dropped, Michael Vaughan advises reshaping the middle order to strengthen rooted consistency by promoting Dawid Malan and adjusting James Vince’s position, allowing a freer batting approach.
Mark Wood’s inclusion seems almost certain, bringing pace to an attack that otherwise relies on less threatening seamers like Overton and Woakes. The senior players’ attitudes—Cook, Root, Anderson, and Broad—will be vital in reversing their recent fortunes.
Historically, the WACA has been a tough venue for England, having not secured a win there in nearly 40 years and suffering significant defeats in their last seven Tests. They’ll need to draw inspiration from their 1978 greats to turn things around.
Our Verdict: Australia 5/10
While a clean sweep would be harsh on the contest, an Aussie victory in Perth looks more likely than not, especially if Steven Smith wins the toss and puts bat to ball first.
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