The Ashes returns this month, bringing one of cricket’s most historic rivalries back to screens across the UK and Europe. England travel to Australia for a five-match Test series that promises drama, big crowds, and sleepless nights for fans watching from this side of the world. Whether you plan to stay up for every over or catch the action the next morning, here’s everything you need to know.

Match Dates and UK Start Times

The 2025–26 Ashes series begins on 21 November and runs through to 8 January. All matches are played in Australia, meaning late nights and early mornings for UK viewers:

• 1st Test – Perth (21–25 November): Starts around 2:30 am GMT

• 2nd Test – Brisbane, Day/Night (4–8 December): Starts around 4:30 am GMT

• 3rd Test – Adelaide (17–21 December): Starts at roughly 12:00 am (midnight) GMT

• 4th Test – Melbourne (26–30 December): Starts around 11:30 pm GMT on the night before each day

• 5th Test – Sydney (4–8 January): Also around 11:30 pm GMT the night before

If you’re in mainland Europe (such as Spain or France), simply add +1 hour, meaning most matches will begin between 12:30 am and 5:30 am local time.

Watching in the UK

UK viewers can watch the entire series exclusively on TNT Sports, with every ball streamed live on discovery+. Subscribers can watch in full, replay key moments, or catch up on sessions they miss overnight. TNT also offers daily highlights and a nightly roundup show, perfect for fans who don’t want to commit to a full night of Test cricket.

Because of the Australian time zone, early-morning sessions are unavoidable, especially for Tests in Perth and Brisbane. Many viewers prefer to watch the first session live, sleep, and then catch up with highlights the next morning — a routine that becomes familiar during an Ashes series.

Radio and Alternative Coverage

BBC Test Match Special continues to provide ball-by-ball commentary, ideal for those driving, working, or listening from bed in the early hours. ECB digital platforms will also offer scorecards, interviews, and daily analysis.

Watching in Europe

Across Europe, availability varies. While TNT Sports holds UK rights, not all European broadcasters have secured coverage for this year’s Ashes. Some regions may offer official feeds through local sports networks or streaming services, while others may only have highlights or delayed broadcasts. Viewers should check their local listings to confirm availability.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re waking up before dawn or catching up with highlights over breakfast, this month’s Ashes series promises compelling cricket all the way through. UK fans have a clear path via TNT Sports and discovery+, while viewers in Europe may need to explore local options — but no matter how you watch, the Ashes always delivers.