The fate of the Ashes series hangs in the balance as England face a must-win third Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval, with the tourists 2-0 down and the spectre of a series defeat looming large.
England's Last Stand in Adelaide
England have no margin for error after suffering eight-wicket defeats in both Perth and Brisbane. The loss at the Gabba was particularly chastening, wrapped up inside two days, leaving Ben Stokes's side on the brink. A third consecutive defeat would see Australia retain the urn before the traditional Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
In a bid to salvage the series, England have made one change to their bowling attack, with Josh Tongue replacing Gus Atkinson. Their task is made even more formidable by the return of Australia's talismanic captain, Pat Cummins, from injury, alongside the recalled spinner Nathan Lyon.
A Sombre Start with Bondi Beach Tributes
Before a ball is bowled in anger, a solemn atmosphere will envelop the Adelaide Oval. Both teams will unite to pay their respects to the victims of the devastating Bondi Beach terror attack, which occurred earlier this week and claimed at least 15 lives.
Players will observe a minute's silence, wear black armbands, and flags will fly at half-mast. In a poignant moment, 80-year-old Australian folk musician John Williamson will perform his 1982 anthem 'True Blue'. South Australia Police have confirmed an increased security presence at the ground, including additional checkpoints and armed officers.
How to Follow the Crucial Contest
The day-night Test in Adelaide is scheduled to run from Wednesday 17 December to Sunday 21 December 2025. Play will begin each day at 11.30am GMT (midnight local time), reverting to traditional timings after the Brisbane Test.
Viewers in the UK can watch all the action live on TNT Sports, though the broadcaster has faced some criticism for plans to broadcast parts of the series from a studio in the United Kingdom.
The full schedule for the remainder of the Ashes series is:
- Third Test: Adelaide Oval, 17-21 December
- Fourth Test: MCG, Melbourne, 26-30 December
- Fifth Test: SCG, Sydney, 4-8 January
All eyes are now on Adelaide to see if England can mount a famous fightback or if Australia will seal a resounding series victory.
