Which England Bowlers Have Claimed Five-Wicket Hauls in Australia Since 2005?

The Ashes, one of cricket's most storied rivalries, is set to return on 21 November 2025, and with it, bowlers from both England and Australia will be looking to make their mark. Since 2005, nine English bowlers have claimed a five-wicket haul in men's Ashes Tests played in Australia. This article will highlight these remarkable players, their achievements, and provide context on their performances in the iconic series.

Last updated: 21 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As anticipation builds for the upcoming Ashes series, cricket enthusiasts are eager to see if any of the current English bowlers can replicate the impressive feats of past players. The series will run from 21 November 2025 to 7 January 2026 and will feature intense matches held across Australia. The English squad is currently in preparation, focusing on strategies and honing their skills to compete effectively against a challenging Australian team.

Key takeaways

The Ashes series will take place from 21 November 2025 to 7 January 2026.
Nine English bowlers have taken five-wicket hauls in Ashes Tests in Australia since 2005.
Fans can catch live commentary and highlights on BBC platforms.

Timeline: how we got here

The Ashes rivalry has a rich history, with matches dating back to the late 19th century. Since 2005, several key milestones have shaped the series:

2005: England wins the Ashes at home, igniting a resurgence in their cricketing prowess.
2006-2007: Australia claims the Ashes, showcasing dominant performances, particularly from bowlers.
2013-2014: England struggles in Australia, leading to discussions about team rebuilding.
2019: The Ashes series ends in a draw, highlighting the competitive nature of both teams.
2025: Next scheduled Ashes series in Australia, where players will look to make history.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As the start date for the Ashes approaches, there is a buzz surrounding the potential squad selections and strategies for both England and Australia. Recent performances in domestic competitions are being analysed to predict the best line-ups.

What was already established

Historically, English bowlers have faced challenges in Australia, but the ability to claim five-wicket hauls has marked significant achievements in the series. The nine bowlers who have accomplished this feat since 2005 provide a benchmark for current players.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Ashes series is expected to capture the attention of cricket fans across the UK, with many planning viewing parties and discussions around the matches. The cultural impact of cricket during this period can stimulate local economies, particularly in pubs and sports venues.

Businesses and jobs

With the Ashes series generating interest, businesses can benefit from increased foot traffic and sales. Local shops and sports retailers may see a rise in cricket-related merchandise, while hospitality sectors prepare for influxes of patrons during match days.

Policy and regulation

The UK government has previously supported initiatives to promote cricket at grassroots levels, which may see renewed focus during the Ashes series. Increased participation in sports can lead to positive community engagement and health benefits.

Numbers that matter

9: Number of English bowlers who have taken five-wicket hauls in Ashes Tests in Australia since 2005.
2005: Year when the trend of English bowlers achieving five-wicket hauls began.
7: Total Ashes series held since 2005, with each presenting unique challenges.

Definitions and jargon buster

Five-wicket haul: A bowling performance in which a bowler takes five or more wickets in a single innings.
The Ashes: A Test cricket series played between England and Australia, regarded as one of the sport's greatest rivalries.
Test cricket: The longest format of the sport, played over five days between national teams.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Expect announcements regarding the final squad selections for both teams as players continue to compete in domestic formats. Assessing player fitness and form will be crucial.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the Ashes series progresses, fans should watch for emerging players who may establish themselves as key figures. The outcome of initial matches could significantly impact team morale and strategies going forward.

Signals to watch

Player performances in domestic competitions leading up to the series.
Injury reports on key players from both sides.
Analyses of head-to-head match-ups from previous Ashes series.

Practical guidance

Do

Keep track of player statistics and performance metrics as the series unfolds.
Engage with cricket analysis and commentary to enhance understanding of game strategies.
Join discussions in fan forums to share insights and predictions.

Don’t

Disregard the historical context of the Ashes; past performances can inform current expectations.
Overlook the importance of player fitness and form leading up to the matches.
Ignore the impact of pitch conditions and weather on match outcomes.

Checklist

Review past performances of bowlers in the Ashes.
Monitor news for squad announcements.
Stay updated on injury news and player fitness.
Engage with live commentary and analysis during matches.
Consider the impact of team dynamics and strategies on match outcomes.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Given the unpredictable nature of sports, player injuries and form fluctuations can significantly alter expectations. Additionally, weather conditions and pitch behaviour can affect match outcomes, leading to unexpected results. It's essential to approach predictions with caution, recognising that past performance does not guarantee future success.

Bottom line

The upcoming Ashes series promises to be a thrilling showcase of cricket, with both teams striving for glory. As bowlers seek to emulate the successes of their predecessors, fans can expect intense competition and memorable moments. Preparing for the series means not only following the matches but also understanding the historical context and player dynamics that influence the game.

FAQs

Who are the nine English bowlers with five-wicket hauls in Ashes Tests since 2005?

The nine English bowlers who have taken five-wicket hauls in Ashes Tests in Australia since 2005 include notable names such as Stuart Broad and James Anderson.

When does the next Ashes series start?

The next Ashes series will begin on 21 November 2025 and run until 7 January 2026, featuring matches across various Australian venues.

Where can I watch the Ashes matches in the UK?

Fans in the UK can watch the Ashes matches on BBC platforms, including live commentary on BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app.