AshThe most iconic rivalry in Test cricket continues to capture the imagination of fans as the 2025-26 edition approaches. With the first Test scheduled to begin in Perth on November 21, the cricketing world is already awash in controversy, predictions and nostalgia. From unforgettable battles to individual brilliance, the Ashes has produced some of the greatest moments in cricket history, and with another chapter, legends of the game are revisiting this prestigious contest.
Stuart Broad and Ricky Ponting Name 21st Century Combined Ashes
Adding to the excitement ahead of the series, the former England pacer Stuart wide and Australia big Ricky ponting They collaborated to pick up the combined ashes of the 21st century. The duo’s selections reflect a blend of unparalleled batting dominance, all-round brilliance and the bowling firepower that has shaped Ashes cricket for the past two decades.
Matthew Hayden – Opener (Australia)
One of the most dominant openers of his era, Hayden terrorized bowling attacks with his power, footwork and fearless strokeplay. His performances in Ashes cricket in particular in Australia set the tone for the multi-series win. His ability to sharpen and then accelerate the new ball made him an automatic choice.
Alastair Cook – Opener (England)
One of England’s best openers, the chef was the epitome of endurance and patience. The legendary 766-run Ashes in 2010–11 remains one of the greatest performances by any visiting cricketer in Australia. His unparalleled consistency and monumental shooting make him the perfect foil to Hayden.
Ricky Ponting – No. 3 (Australia)
One of the most successful captains and 3 most productive, 3 batsmen in history, ponting bowler with pull batting, aggression and mental toughness. His leadership and ability to change the tempo of a match made him a modern Ashes giant, with over 2,500 runs against England.
Joe root – No. 4 (England)
Root is England’s all-time leading sprinter and the most technically complete cadaver of the 21st century, with an elegance and consistency that few can match. He led England’s batting for years and his ashes remain the backbone of his backbone. Its compatibility and long-lasting presence make it indispensable. Supporters are expecting a high slide from the English kayaker, whose record has been unimpressive on Australian soil.
Steve Smith – No. 5 (Australia)
Smith’s Ashes record is nothing short of phenomenal. With numerous series-defining centuries and extraordinary consistency, he has tormented England like no one since Bradman. His unorthodox technique but extraordinary hand-eye coordination make him one of the greatest ashes ever.
Ben Stokes – Overall (England)
A generational match-winner, stokes, some of the most formidable ashes mothers, his ability to cap, leadership, leadership, fighting spirit and knchans to turn victories into victories in 2019 makes him an automatic selection in any ashes. The upcoming Ashes will be one of the biggest captaincy tests.
Adam Gilchrist – WicketKeeper (Australia)
Gilchrist revolutionized the wicketkeeper-batsman role with his unsolicited, game-changing batting. Few wicketkeepers have influenced Ashes competitions like South Australia’s Superstar.
Shane Warne – Leg-Spinner (Australia)
The greatest toilet-spinning game ever seen, Khabna’s battles in the ashes are the stuff of legend. From ‘Ball of the Century’ legacy to countless match-winning spells, harnessed by spot, dip and spin. His greatness makes him the heart of the XI.
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Pat Cummins – Captain and Fast Bowler (Australia)
Cummins is Australia’s PACE spearhead with his relentless accuracy, bounce and big match temperament. As captain, he led Australia to the Ashes in 2023. His fitness, discipline and ability to get fit in the conditions make him the modern leader of the XI.
Stuart Broad – Fast Bowler (England)
Broad produced some memorable spells in the Ashes, the second highest behind Warne, especially against Australia. His 8/15 at Trent Bridge in 2015 and what the top-order batsmen say is brilliant. His record in the wind competition alone makes him an automatic choice.
Glenn McGrath – Fast Bowler (Australia)
McGrath’s accuracy, seam movement and relentless discipline earned him legendary status in the Ashes. 157 Ashes Wakets-The most by any fast bowler, he was the long-term tormentor of Australia’s English bowlers. His consistency at both ends of a pitch makes him an ideal strike bowler.
James Anderson’s absence raises eyebrows
However, one key omission caused widespread controversy – the absence of England’s greatest fast bowler, James Anderson. In the 21st century, Anderson’s numbers are unmatched among fast bowlers:
- Most Test Wakets by a fast bowler: 704
- Most test matches played by a fast bowler: 188
- First Bowler to take 1000 first-class wickets in 21st century
- Oldest bowler to take both 5-wicket and 10-wicket hauls in Tests
Over two decades, Anderson displayed extraordinary skill, swing mastery and a remarkable longevity that made him one of the most influential figures in Test cricket. Although retired now, he remains an era-defining bowler whose Ashes contributions included several memorable spells.
Despite his superior numbers and consistency, his exit from the combined XI naturally explained the chatter among fans and pundits alike. Many should have just made Anderson’s record the automatic choice.
Read: Australia or England? James Anderson picks the favorites for the 2025-26 bullpen
