Will England's Fate in Perth Determine a 3-1 Ashes Defeat?
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Synopsis
As the Ashes series approaches, Ian Healy warns that England's performance in Perth could dictate their chances of winning. With a history of underperformance in Australia, can England rise to the occasion?
Key Takeaways
- The Perth Test is crucial for England's Ashes hopes.
- England has not won an Ashes series since 2015.
- They must overcome a history of poor performance in Australia.
- Ian Healy believes England is underprepared.
- Marnus Labuschagne is in great form.
New Delhi, Oct 20 (NationPress) Renowned Australian cricket icon Ian Healy has cautioned England that their match in Perth will be a pivotal moment in the forthcoming Ashes series. He remarked that if England suffers a defeat in the initial Test, they are likely to face a series loss of 3-1.
The inaugural Test of the five-match Ashes series is set to commence in Perth on November 21. Prior to the Ashes, England is scheduled for just one warm-up match, a three-day clash at Lilac Hill Park in Perth from November 13-15.
It's noteworthy that England hasn't claimed an Ashes series since 2015, with the 2019 and 2023 editions concluding in a 2-2 tie. They have not secured a Test win in Australia since 2011.
“England will secure a Test victory... (However) you will witness how they perform when they are underprepared in Perth – I hope England is taking note. The conditions were swinging and bouncing, and all the batsmen were playing extravagant shots and getting caught out. England, be cautious; you’re making the same mistakes,” Healy stated on SENQ Breakfast.
England last won The Ashes during the 2015 series in England, and their most recent Ashes triumph in Australia was in the 2010-11 series, where they emerged victorious with a score of 3-1.
Healy is of the opinion that England is entering the series underprepared and misjudging the pitch at Optus Stadium. “They are coming in unprepared, while our fast bowlers looked fresh and sharp in last night’s ODI against India. Will England win a Test? Yes, but I envision it being close, perhaps a 2-2 draw. Perth is the key Test. If England loses there, they will fall to 3-1. A win in Perth means it’s 2-2,” he added.
Healy expressed his support for Marnus Labuschagne to open the batting. After a challenging three-year stretch at the Test level, the seasoned top-order batter faced being dropped for a series in the West Indies and was at risk of missing this summer’s Ashes against England. Nevertheless, the 31-year-old has made a strong comeback, scoring four centuries in five innings across three List A matches and two Sheffield Shield games for Queensland.
“I’m thrilled with Marnus’s form; he’s made a comeback. Marnus can open and is willing to play wherever the selectors see fit. I envision him at 1 and Khawaja at 2. Konstas will step in when Uzzie retires,” Healy concluded.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge Ian Healy's insights on England's upcoming challenges in the Ashes series. The team's history in Australia poses a significant hurdle, and understanding the dynamics of the Perth Test could be vital for England's hopes.
NationPress
20/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ian Healy say about the Ashes series?
Ian Healy warned that the Perth Test is critical for England, suggesting that losing it could lead to a 3-1 series loss.
When does the Ashes series start?
The Ashes series is set to begin on November 21 in Perth.
How many warm-up matches does England have before the Ashes?
England has only one warm-up match scheduled before the Ashes.
When was the last time England won a Test in Australia?
England last secured a Test victory in Australia in 2011.
What is Marnus Labuschagne's current form?
Marnus Labuschagne has been in excellent form, scoring four centuries in five innings recently.
