London – The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed a 16-man Test squad for the highly anticipated Ashes 2025/26 series in Australia. The announcement brings significant leadership adjustments, with Harry Brook named Test vice-captain in place of Ollie Pope.
Harry Brook Appointed Vice-Captain
At just 26 years old, Harry Brook continues to rise as a central figure in English cricket. Already serving as England’s white-ball captain, he now takes on the role of Test vice-captain. His appointment comes at a crucial time, with captain Ben Stokes still recovering from a shoulder injury. Should Stokes remain unfit, Brook could be asked to lead England in one of the sport’s most challenging tours.
Ollie Pope Loses Deputy Role
Ollie Pope, who has stood in for Stokes on five occasions over the past 14 months, has been relieved of his vice-captaincy duties. A dip in form and mounting pressure on his No. 3 batting position contributed to the decision. England’s management appears keen to refresh its leadership structure ahead of the Ashes.
Will Jacks Earns Surprise Recall
In one of the most unexpected moves, Will Jacks has been recalled as a reserve spinner behind Shoaib Bashir. Despite limited first-class cricket in recent years, Jacks was preferred over Rehan Ahmed, Liam Dawson, and Jack Leach. His inclusion highlights England’s intent to add flexibility to their squad options.
Bowling Attack Reinforced
England’s pace department has also seen changes. With Chris Woakes unavailable, Matthew Potts has been recalled, while Mark Wood has been cleared to play after missing the summer due to a knee injury. Notably, Wood is the only bowler in the squad with previous Ashes experience in Australia, making his role vital for the series.
England’s Ashes 2025/26 Squad
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Ben Stokes (C)
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Harry Brook (VC)
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Joe Root
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Zak Crawley
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Ben Duckett
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Ollie Pope
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Jamie Smith (wk)
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Will Jacks
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Jacob Bethell
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Brydon Carse
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Jofra Archer
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Gus Atkinson
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Shoaib Bashir
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Matthew Potts
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Josh Tongue
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Mark Wood
Ashes 2025/26 Fixtures
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1st Test: November 21–25, Perth
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2nd Test: December 4–8, Brisbane
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3rd Test: December 17–21, Adelaide
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4th Test: December 25–29, Melbourne
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5th Test: January 3–7, Sydney
England Aim to End 14-Year Ashes Drought
England have not secured an Ashes series victory in Australia since 2010–11. With Stokes’ fitness still uncertain, Brook stepping into a leadership role, and several bold squad selections, the upcoming series promises intense competition. Head coach Brendon McCullum will be hoping his strategic changes can deliver England’s first Ashes triumph Down Under in over a decade.
