'We’ve got great depth and a great squad' - Chris Woakes feels England have a chance to beat Australia in the Ashes

Published - 12 Oct 2025, 14:53 IST | Updated - 12 Oct 2025, 14:53 IST

Former English cricketer Chris Woakes feels England stand a chance of defeating Australia in the upcoming Ashes. England last won the Ashes in Australia back in 2010-11. They have been unsuccessful in their last three attempts while touring Down Under.

Woakes acknowledged how challenging it is to play red-ball cricket in Australia. However, he reckoned that England has the capability as well as squad depth to give the Aussies a run for their money.

“We’ve got great depth and a great squad. Going to Australia is always a different beast, but I’m hoping the guys can go and do a good job. If the lads in the first XI can stay fit and on the field, we have a hell of a chance this time,” stated Woakes in a BBC Radio 5 Live interview.

Woakes, who recently retired from international cricket, spoke about the intensity of the Ashes and believes that the current lot has what it takes to compete in Test cricket played in Australia.

“Ashes cricket is played with more venom behind it, but these players have played enough international cricket to know what it’s about. We’ve been building nicely over the last few years but haven’t quite crossed the line in the big series. We’re due for a competitive performance Down Under, and these guys have got that in the locker,” he added.

England kicked off their 2025-27 cycle of the World Test Championship with a five-Test series at home against India, which they drew 2-2. Joe Root (537 runs in nine innings), Josh Tongue (19 wickets in six innings) and Ben Stokes (17 wickets in eight innings) were the top performers from the English unit.

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England's leadup to the Ashes comprises a six-match white-ball series against New Zealand, with three ODIs and as many T20Is. The series is scheduled to start on Saturday, October 18.