An eight-wicket defeat in Perth hardly silenced critics who argued that England had come into the Ashes undercooked and underprepared. Ben Stokes’ side fought back valiantly with the ball in the first innings, locking in a 40-run lead, but fell apart once again with the bat before Travis Head demolished a toothless attack with a brilliant 123 from 83 balls.
As the second Test approaches at the Gabba, a ground where England haven’t won in their last nine Ashes Tests, they face a must-win game if they are to get anything from a series that already looks to be slipping away.
Mark Wood’s hamstring injury means the Durham quick misses out, with all-rounder Will Jacks stepping into the team for just his third Test cap.
Australia are still without captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Usman Khawaja has also been ruled out after failing to recover from back spasms.
Australia vs England Ashes Cricket Betting Tips
With the second Test just around the corner, we’ve got a cracking 3-fold paying 10/1 with bet365. Don’t forget to check out the best cricket betting sites for all the latest promos and bonuses ahead of England’s visit to the Gabba.
| Market | Bet | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| To Win the Match | Australia | 8/15 |
| 1st Innings Score | Over 281.5 | 5/6 |
| Top Match Bowler | Mitchell Starc | 11/4 |
| Total Odds | 10/1 |
*Odds correct at 12:00 GMT on 02/12/2025. Odds subject to change.
Bet 1: Australia to Win the Match
It won’t come as a shock to hear that England have a sorry record at the Gabba. They haven’t won there since 1986, and the Aussies have won seven of the last nine meetings (7W, 2D). There’s a reason they call it the “Gabbatoir”.
Pink-ball numbers don’t read any better for a Bazball upset either. In 14 Tests, Australia have won 13 and lost one, and are undefeated in Brisbane.
England, on the other hand, have just two wins and five defeats in seven pink-ball Tests and as yet, have been unable to find a way to adapt to day-night cricket with any consistency.
The numbers don’t look great for England. They will be buoyed by the fact that Cummins, Hazlewood and Khawaja are missing, but with no Mark Wood and a risk of throwing Will Jacks into the lion's den, we’re backing the Aussies to make it a near-unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
Bet 2: 1st Innings Score – Over 281.5
Whoever wins the toss will almost certainly bat first. The strategy will be to make hay while the sun shines, literally, because as the floodlights take effect, there’s a lot more in it for the bowlers.
The over 281.5 1st innings runs line is really interesting. The Aussies average 315 in day-night Test matches and have only been bowled out for less than 330 twice. If they get in, expect them to cruise this line.
Obviously, England will be hoping to do the same. They surely won’t be as reckless as they were in Perth. Knowing how vital the 1st innings is, they must rein in their attacking flair in favour of something a little more measured. Averaging around 252 in day-night Tests for the 1st innings clearly adds some trepidation, so if you feel more comfortable waiting to act on this until the toss, then feel free.
Bet 3: Mitchell Starc Top Match Wicket Taker
Mitchell Starc needed to step up in Perth, and he duly obliged, taking 10 wickets for 113 in the match. His numbers for day-night Tests with the pink ball are nothing short of remarkable.
He’s taken 81 wickets, at an average of 17.08, striking at 33.3 and a best of 6/9. To put this into context, the next best in the world is Pat Cummins with 43 wickets.
Getting 11/4 for him on the Ashes betting markets to be the top wicket taker in an attack that is missing two of its biggest stars looks like a no-brainer.
