The Ashes 2025/26 enters a crucial phase as Australia and England lock horns with each other in the second Test. The first match set a strong tone for the series. The Aussies won the first game by 8 wickets and took the first lead in the series.
England fought hard but failed to match Australia’s control. Both teams now look at The Gabba for a fresh start. Fans expect another intense contest between the two old rivals. Here are all the details for the second Test, including match timings, venue, squads, pitch report, and full live-streaming information.
Ashes 2025/26: Match Overview for 2nd Test
The second Test will take place at The Gabba in Brisbane. The match starts on December 4 and ends on December 8. The game begins at 9:30 AM IST for viewers in India. The timing suits morning viewers and allows full-day Test action.
The Gabba offers pace and bounce. Fast bowlers enjoy the conditions here. Visiting teams often struggle on this pitch. England understand this challenge very well. They must show discipline in every session. Australia will try to repeat their strong performance from the first Test. They know this venue supports their style of cricket.
Live Streaming and Telecast Details
Fans across the world will follow this Test closely. In India, Star Sports will broadcast the match live. Viewers can stream the game on JioCinema or Hotstar, depending on the broadcaster’s rights.
In Australia, Fox Cricket will air the match. Kayo Sports and 7plus will offer live streaming options. Viewers in England can watch the Test on TNT Sports. They can also stream the match through the network’s digital platforms.
Fans in other countries must check their regional broadcasters. Many sports channels and digital platforms secure rights for major cricket series like the Ashes. Viewers can confirm local listings to watch the match live.
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Australia – Expected XI
Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Michael Neser, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett
Travis Head continues his excellent form. He scored freely in the first Test. Steve Smith leads the team with experience. He will expect solid contributions from the batting group. Australia’s pace attack looks powerful. Starc, Boland, and Neser enjoy bowling on the Gabba surface. They can control long periods of the game with their accuracy.
England – Expected XI
Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook (vc), Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer
Ben Stokes leads with intensity. He demands full effort from every player. Joe Root remains England’s key batter. He will try to guide the team through difficult spells. Harry Brook also holds a big role in the middle order. England’s bowlers, especially Jofra Archer, carry huge responsibility. They must strike early and often to keep Australia under pressure.
Pitch and Weather Report
The Gabba pitch helps fast bowlers from the beginning for the pink-ball Test. It offers strong bounce and sharp movement. Batters must adjust quickly. They need patience in the opening hour. The pitch becomes easier only after the surface settles.
The pink ball swings more under lights. Bowlers enjoy extra help in twilight conditions. Batters face tough spells during this time.
Weather in Brisbane remains warm in early December. Light showers can appear, but long delays are unlikely. The match should see full playing days without major interruptions.
What to Expect
Australia enter the match as favourites. Their players know the conditions well. They also carry momentum from the first Test. England must improve their discipline. Their top order must spend more time at the crease. Their bowlers must attack consistently.
Key battles will shape this Test. Australia’s fast bowlers will test England’s batters from ball one. England will rely heavily on Root and Stokes in pressure situations. The match can turn quickly if either team wins a strong session.
Fans should expect a tense, high-quality contest. Both sides want control of the series. Mistakes will prove costly. Moments of individual brilliance can change the entire game. The Ashes always delivers drama, and the second Test promises exactly that.
