Veteran Australian pacer Scott Boland has warned England ahead of The Ashes 2025-26 later this year, claiming that his skills continue to improve despite being in the later stages of his career. The 36-year-old right-arm seamer insisted that age is only making him a better bowler.
Australia will host England in a five-match Test series starting on November 21. Boland had a quiet Ashes campaign in 2023, playing just two matches and claiming only two wickets, as the series in England ended in a 2-2 draw.
However, Scott Boland recently showcased his class in the Test series against the West Indies last month. In the third and final Test, he produced a stunning six-wicket haul, including a hat-trick, highlighting that he remains a potent force with the ball.
“Even with age, my skills keep improving,” says Scott Boland
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Scott Boland revealed that he feels his game has improved over time and that he is now a stronger bowler than he was during the 2023 Ashes.
“Even though I’m getting older, I still feel my skills are improving. Even in the twilight of my career, I’m constantly learning what works for me and what allows me to perform at my best,” he said.
Reflecting on the 2023 Ashes, Scott Boland added, “I’ve thought a lot about that series. There were moments in England when I bowled well but just didn’t take wickets. I’m a better bowler now, and the next Ashes will be in conditions I know really well.”
Notably, Australia fielded four seamers in the final Test against the West Indies, with Boland replacing spinner Nathan Lyon in the playing XI. However, the experienced pacer believes a similar strategy is unlikely in the Ashes 2025-26. He also noted that the return of Cameron Green could limit his opportunities in the pace department.
“I hope so [to play in a four-pacer attack again] – but probably not in Australia. Nathan is one of the best spin bowlers in the world and can bowl in any conditions. He’s been the glue of our bowling line-up over the last few years,” Boland said.
“Then you’ll probably see Greeny (Cameron Green) coming back from back surgery and bowling, so that might reduce the chances of having four quicks,” he added.
Meanwhile, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood are set to lead Australia’s pace attack against England in The Ashes. With the series comprising five Tests, Scott Boland could get opportunities if any of the main pacers face injuries or niggles.
The Ashes 2025-26 will kick off on November 21 in Perth, with the fifth Test scheduled from January 4 to 8, 2026, in Sydney.