Ashes 2025-26: England’s Ashes campaign in Australia has turned into a difficult chapter, marked by disappointing performances on the pitch and unwanted attention away from it. After three Test matches, the visitors find themselves completely outplayed by Australia, who sealed the series early by taking an unassailable 3–0 lead. The latest setback came in Adelaide, where England were defeated by 82 runs, allowing the hosts to retain the Ashes urn with authority.
The ongoing Ashes series has exposed several weaknesses in the England setup. Batting collapses at crucial moments, inconsistent bowling spells, and a lack of momentum have all contributed to their downfall. England have struggled to match Australia’s intensity and adaptability to local conditions. Across the first three Tests, the gap between the two sides has been evident, both statistically and visually, leaving England firmly on the back foot.
While on-field results have been worrying enough, events away from cricket have further complicated matters for the touring side. A video circulating widely on social media showed England batter Ben Duckett appearing intoxicated and having difficulty returning to the team hotel. The clip quickly gained traction online, drawing criticism from fans and former players alike, and placing England’s off-field discipline under the spotlight.
The England and Wales Cricket Board responded publicly after the footage went viral. Rob Key, managing director of men’s cricket at the ECB, confirmed that the board would examine the incident and review the team’s conduct during the tour. According to the ECB, maintaining professional standards is a priority, even while acknowledging the intense scrutiny international players face on overseas tours.
In an official statement, the board clarified that they were aware of the content being shared online and would follow established procedures if behaviour was found to fall short of expectations. At the same time, the ECB emphasized its commitment to supporting players who may need help, signaling a balanced approach between discipline and welfare.
Adding fuel to the debate were reports about England’s mid-Ashes break at the resort town of Noosa on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Critics suggested that the break, which took place between the second and third Tests, may have involved excessive alcohol consumption. However, the ECB pushed back against this narrative, stating that the four-day trip had been planned well in advance.
According to the board, head coach Brendon McCullum organized the break nearly a year earlier with the intention of refreshing the squad mentally and physically. The ECB stressed that the trip was not intended as a holiday but as a strategic reset during a demanding tour.
Beyond the off-field controversy, Duckett’s form with the bat has also been a concern. Widely regarded as a talented all-format opener, he has failed to make a significant impact in Australian conditions. After three Tests, Duckett has scored only 97 runs at an average of 16.16, with a highest score of 29. For a player expected to provide solid starts, these numbers underline the broader batting issues England have faced throughout the series.
Despite already losing the series, England will be keen to salvage pride in the remaining matches. The fourth Test, known as the Boxing Day Test, will be played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 31. With intense media scrutiny and questions around form and focus, England’s challenge will be as much mental as it is technical.
As the Ashes journey continues, England must find a way to regroup, restore discipline, and show resilience in the face of mounting pressure. Whether they can shift the narrative in the remaining Tests remains to be seen.
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