Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has weighed in on the highly anticipated Ashes 2025-26 series, making a strong prediction. Clarke believed that Australia’s formidable bowling attack and England’s over-reliance on key players will be the deciding factors in the series. His prediction comes as part of the growing off-field chatter ahead of the five-match series.
Michael Clarke’s definitive prediction for the Ashes 2025-26 winner and scoreline
Speaking on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, Clarke was unequivocal in his belief that Australia are the outright favorites to win the Ashes on home soil. He laid out a precise scoreline and a strategic rationale that considered every variable, including the weather.
He stated: “To me, I still think Australia are definitely favourites to win the series. I probably pick Australia to win the series 3-1. I think there’ll be one Test match washed out. I don’t think it’ll be a draw; I think it’ll be washed out or rain will play a part, so we don’t get a result. I think the Australian attack is defining. In Australian conditions, Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins will be the first three picks. If there’s an injury replacement, Scott Boland, no-brainer, will come in. Nathan Lyon will play,”
Clarke’s confidence in Australia’s attack is evident, as he believes their quality in home conditions will be a decisive factor. He further revealed that his attention has been focused on the Ashes throughout England’s recent series against India, carefully scrutinizing every aspect of their performance. “I’ve had one eye all throughout this series. I know India beat England. Indian fans and England fans care more about this, but as an Australian fan, I’ve had one eye on the Ashes the whole way through. Looking at England in different areas, different aspects, being under pressure, how this England team is playing. Also, looking at how Australia is going to go this summer?” Clarke explained, highlighting his meticulous preparation for the upcoming contest.
Also READ: Glenn McGrath predicts the scoreline of Ashes 2025-26
The critical weaknesses identified in England’s team for Ashes 2025-26
Beyond his praise for the Australian squad, Clarke’s prediction is also underpinned by what he perceives as a significant fragility within the England team, particularly in their bowling lineup. He expressed deep concerns about their reliance on key all-rounders and a lack of depth, stating: “I think England rely heavily on Jofra Archer or Ben Stokes. I don’t see either of them bowl as much as they’re going to be required to bowl in a five-Test series in Australia… In these conditions, if we’ve a good summer. Weather-wise, it’s so tough on your body. I am not sure Jofra will be ready to go through five Test matches. I hope he is. For the series, we need Archer fit, Stokes fit, and they also need Mark Wood fit… And I think you rely heavily on a spinner, and they haven’t got that,”
This comprehensive critique touches on multiple strategic points, from the physical demands of bowling in Australian weather to the potential for injury to key players like Archer and Stokes. Furthermore, Clarke’s pointed reference to their lack of a specialist spinner highlights a tactical disadvantage that he believes will be a significant challenge for the English team to overcome, ultimately strengthening his conviction that Australia will dominate the series.
