Speaking ahead of the Ashes 2025-26, the Australian pacer admitted that England possess a formidable batting line-up and that his side will face a tough challenge in countering them during the five-match series.
Josh Hazlewood: The Ashes 2025-26 marks the next Test series for both Australia and England in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle. The highly anticipated contest begins on November 21 in Perth, with the final Test scheduled in Sydney from January 4-8, 2026.
Australia enter the series on the back of a commanding 3-0 whitewash over the West Indies, while England are coming off a hard-fought 2-2 draw in their five-match series against India.
Josh Hazlewood Praises England’s Batting Depth Ahead of Ashes 2025-26
In a chat with ESPNCricinfo, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood lauded England’s batting strength, highlighting the form of Harry Brook and Joe Root. Hazlewood believes both players are well-prepared to make an impact during the upcoming Ashes series in Australia.
“England have had pretty flat wickets in recent years, along with a dry summer, so spin is starting to play more of a role. I think Brook will adapt quickly. He’s a quality player, ranked among the best in the world, and will be a tough challenge,” Josh Hazlewood said.
He further added, “A fresh face like Harry Brook can play with freedom, without any baggage. Joe Root is probably in the form of his life as well. England’s top seven have been outstanding in Tests—they really are an unbelievable batting line-up. It’s going to be a real challenge.”
Josh Hazlewood: Meanwhile, Australia are set to face New Zealand in a T20I series and India in a white-ball series before the Ashes begins. England, on the other hand, will take on South Africa and New Zealand in white-ball cricket, along with a T20I series against Ireland. Several Australian players will also feature in the Sheffield Shield as preparation for the marquee Ashes contest.