Australia have retained the Ashes after defeating England by 82 runs in the third Test in Adelaide, securing an unassailable 3-0 series lead. This victory, achieved in just 11 days of cricket, extends England’s winless streak in Australia to 14 years and raises serious questions about the future of their aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach.
The match culminated on the fifth day as England, chasing a record target of 435, were bowled out for 352. Despite fighting innings from Jamie Smith (60) and Will Jacks (47), Mitchell Starc’s key wickets and a stunning catch by Marnus Labuschagne ended England’s resistance. Australia had set up the win with Travis Head’s magnificent 170 in the second innings and Alex Carey’s century in the first, while England’s batting faltered under pressure.
England’s series loss is a significant blow to the Bazball strategy championed by captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum. Both have admitted to errors in preparation, and their leadership is now under scrutiny as the team’s methods were exposed by Australia’s disciplined play. The tourists’ decision to forgo warm-up matches and other tactical choices have been heavily criticized.
Australia, despite facing injuries to key players like Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, displayed remarkable depth and consistency. Cummins returned from injury to lead the side in Adelaide, while Starc’s bowling was instrumental throughout the series. The team’s ability to adapt, such as promoting Travis Head to open, proved decisive.
Historically, this defeat continues England’s poor record in Australia, where they haven’t won a Test since 2011. The quick series conclusion—equaling the shortest in a century—underscores the dominance of Australian cricket at home and the challenges England face in overseas conditions.
Looking forward, England must focus on the remaining two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney to avoid a humiliating 5-0 whitewash. Australia, meanwhile, aims to complete a clean sweep, which would bolster their legacy and set the stage for the next Ashes series in the UK in 2027.
The fallout from this series will likely lead to introspection and possible changes in the England setup, while Australia celebrates another home triumph, reinforcing their status as a cricketing powerhouse.
