The Ashes 2025–26 series is heating up, and all eyes are now on the Adelaide Oval as cricket fans gear up for the highly anticipated Australia vs England 3rd Test. With Australia leading the series 2–0, England enters this clash under immense pressure. A loss here could decide the fate of the Ashes well before the final two Tests, making this match a must-win scenario for the visitors.
The Adelaide Test has always carried its own charm – pink ball swinging under lights, tactical battles, and unforgettable performances. As both sides prepare for the showdown, here’s a complete preview, pitch analysis, key battles, and match predictions.
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🏟️ Match Overview – Australia vs England, 3rd Test (Adelaide Oval)
| Factor | Details |
| Match | Australia vs England – 3rd Ashes Test |
| Venue | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide |
| Dates | 17–21 December 2025 |
| Format | Day-Night Test (Pink Ball) |
| Series Status | Australia leads 2–0 |
The pink-ball element makes this Test unpredictable. Teams that control the twilight session usually end up dominating the game.
Australia: Riding High on Momentum
Australia has looked in prime form, outplaying England in both Perth and Brisbane. Their top order has delivered runs consistently while the bowling attack – led by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc – has exploited conditions brilliantly.
Key Players for Australia
- David Warner / Usman Khawaja – Both have strong records at Adelaide and enjoy batting under lights.
- Steve Smith – Loves Adelaide; averages consistently high at this venue.
- Travis Head – A local favourite who thrives on home turf.
- Pat Cummins & Mitchell Starc – Deadly with the pink ball, especially in evening sessions.
Australia’s biggest advantage is squad stability. Their batting lineup has answered almost every situation, while the pace trio is experienced and settled.
🏏 England: Under Pressure but Dangerous
England enters the 3rd Test desperate to keep the series alive. After back-to-back defeats, the visitors are expected to make changes – not just in selection but also in strategy. The aggressive “Bazball” approach has not paid off against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack, and the team may need a more calculated plan.
Key Players for England
- Joe Root – The backbone of England’s batting; needs a big innings to lift the side.
- Ben Stokes – The fighter England relies on in turning points.
- Zak Crawley – Starts well but must convert his begins into big scores.
- Jofra Archer & Mark Wood – Pace will be crucial with the pink ball under lights.
England must avoid collapses that have cost them heavily in the first two Tests. If their bowlers can exploit the twilight phase, they can challenge the Aussies.
🌙 Adelaide Pitch & Conditions – What to Expect
The Adelaide Oval Day-Night Test is known for:
1. First Session: Best Time to Bat
The pitch is good for batting early in the day, allowing top-order players to settle.
2. Twilight Session: The Game Changes
As evening approaches:
- Ball swings more,
- Seamers become twice as lethal,
- Wickets fall quickly.
3. Spin Has a Smaller Role
Spinners usually come in late on Day 3 or Day 4 as the pitch slows.
4. Weather
Mild temperatures, with no major rain threats expected.
🔥 Key Battles That Will Decide the Match
1. Steve Smith vs Jofra Archer
This rivalry has been intense for years. Archer’s pace vs Smith’s precision is one of the most exciting matchups.
2. Cummins vs Root
Cummins has troubled Root repeatedly, especially under lights. Root must find a way to counter the Australian captain.
3. Warner vs Anderson (if selected)
If Anderson plays, his battle with Warner at Adelaide could be crucial – swing vs aggression.
📊 Predicted Playing XIs
Australia (Predicted)
- David Warner
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Cameron Green
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Mitchell Starc
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Josh Hazlewood
- Nathan Lyon
England (Predicted)
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Jonny Bairstow
- Ben Stokes (c)
- Harry Brook
- Chris Woakes
- Mark Wood
- Jofra Archer
- Tom Hartley
🔮 Match Predictions – Who Has the Edge?
Australia enters the 3rd Test as favourites – form, confidence, and home support are all in their favour. Their mastery of the pink ball, especially through Starc and Cummins, could play a huge role.
However, England is dangerous when cornered. If their batters dig in and their fast bowlers strike early during the twilight phase, they can make this a competitive match.
Prediction:
Australia will win, but England is capable of surprising if key players step up.
❓ FAQs
1. When is the 3rd Test between Australia vs England?
The match starts on 17 December 2025 at the Adelaide Oval.
2. Why is the Adelaide Test special?
It’s played with a pink ball under lights, making swing bowling extremely effective in the evening.
3. Can England still win the Ashes?
Yes, but they must win the 3rd Test. A loss will make a series comeback extremely difficult.
4. Who is favoured to win the 3rd Test?
Australia has the edge due to form and home conditions.
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