The 2025/26 Ashes is finally up and running as England do battle with Australia in the First Test.

Seven weeks of elite cricketing action are in store Down Under with Ben Stokes and co looking to reclaim the famous urn.

Latest scores from First Test in Perth HERE

The first of five Test matches is underway at the Optus Stadium in Perth with fireworks already on full show.

This winter, talkSPORT.com will be bringing fans our new ‘Absolute Ashes’ column , providing all the latest news, views, analysis and moments you may have missed from Australia.

Let’s get going…

‘Cheap shots’ slammed

Steve Harmison has criticised Monty Panesar for his comments about Steve Smith on the eve of the Ashes.

Panesar dredged up Smith’s infamous ‘Sandpaper Gate’ saga prior to the first Test with the Au

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