The legendary Ashes rivalry is set for another thrilling chapter as the 2025–26 series begins on November 21 in Perth. With anticipation peaking on both sides, players and fans alike are gearing up for a hard-fought contest that promises high-quality cricket, intense battles and renewed drama. As discussions heat up, Australia’s reliable seamer Scott Boland has pinpointed iconic batter as the most coveted wicket in England’s star-studded line-up, laying the groundwork for a fascinating individual duel within the larger contest.

Scott Boland picks the prized scalp in England’s Ashes lineup

Speaking ahead of the opening Test, Boland admitted that despite England’s deep batting order, former skipper Joe Root remains the standout challenge for Australia’s bowlers. The pacer emphasised the importance of dismissing key players early to disrupt England’s rhythm, particularly someone of Root’s calibre and influence.

“You always want to take down the best players,” Boland said as quoted by Independent, reflecting on previous Ashes showdowns.

“When Joe Root was captain, the goal was always to try and limit his impact. England have several quality batters, but hopefully we can keep Root and the middle order as quiet as possible,” added Boland.

Boland’s comments underline Australia’s long-standing respect for Root’s class, especially given his extraordinary consistency over the past few years. Root continues to set the benchmark for modern Test batters, and his presence remains England’s biggest hope of challenging Australia on their home turf.

Resurgence and record since last Australian tour

Since England’s last Ashes tour of Australia—where Root captained a struggling side to a 4–0 defeat—his batting has risen to another level. In the years that followed, Root has amassed 16 Test centuries and averaged a remarkable 57.14, cementing his position at the top of the ICC men’s Test batting rankings.

This resurgence has not gone unnoticed in Australia’s camp. The right-hander’s improved ability to convert starts into big scores, along with his adaptability against pace and spin, makes him the most significant obstacle for the Australian attack. However, Root’s dominance worldwide contrasts with his challenges in Australia. Despite his stature, he has yet to score a Test century on Australian soil—an anomaly in his otherwise glittering career.

Also READ: Michael Vaughan and Glenn McGrath reveal combined Ashes XI, no place for Joe Root

Chasing his first century down under

Root’s record down under remains one of the most talked-about subplots heading into the 2025–26 Ashes. In 14 Tests in Australia, he has scored 892 runs at an average of 35.68, registering nine half-centuries but no hundreds. His highest score in the country, 89, stands as a reminder of how often he has come close but fallen short. The upcoming series offers Root a chance to rewrite this narrative. With his recent form and experience, the England star will be determined to break his century drought in Australia and anchor England’s hopes of reclaiming the urn.

Also READ: Ricky Ponting explains why Joe Root can end his century drought Down Under in Ashes 2025-26