Lost 15 Tests, Nasser Hussain Backs Australia as Ashes 2025/26 Favourites
Nasser Hussain says Australia are Ashes favourites and believes the series will define England’s Bazball legacy.
England are heading into the next Ashes with hope, belief and a bold style of cricket. But former England captain Nasser Hussain feels the challenge in Australia will be far tougher than anything this team has faced so far.
He said the Ashes will shape how this England side is remembered. In his words, “England say it won’t but it will. This series usually defines England captains and coaches, and this one will.”
England’s aggressive approach, known as Bazball, has changed their Test cricket identity over the last couple of years. They chase big totals, attack with freedom and refuse to go defensive. But Hussain feels this style will face its biggest test in Australia.
He pointed out that England have not won any of their last 15 Tests in Australia. They drew two and lost 13. Hawthorn said, “You’ve got to add context. Australia are firm favourites. Fifteen Tests, drawn two, lost 13. It shows how hard it is to go to Australia and win.”
Hussain believes this series holds huge meaning for the group led by Ben Stokes, coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key. The trio has spent over three years shaping a team that can win in Australia. Every selection and strategy has been built with this goal in mind.
If England pull off a win, Hussain feels it will silence all doubt. “If England win the Ashes Rob Key, Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum will say: ‘There you are, we told you so’. But if they lose it, it will be others saying, ‘Same old story.’”
He also praised the leadership group for sticking to their beliefs. He likes how they block out noise and stay true to their plans. “The thing I really like about it is that they are not overly concerned about what other people think. They don’t worry about the reaction. This is how we’re doing it, and we’ll live or die by it.”
For England, this Ashes tour is not just another series. It is a chance to rewrite recent history and prove that Bazball can succeed even in the toughest conditions. Whether they rise or fall, Hussain is certain the outcome will define their legacy.
