Cricket Australia has reported record-breaking ticket sales on the first day of priority pre-sales for the 2025-26 home series against India, South Africa, and England.
Over 220,000 tickets were sold on opening day alone. This number more than doubled the previous single-day record of 111,741 tickets, which was set during the 2017-18 Ashes pre-sale.
The Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) saw exceptional demand, with over 55,000 tickets sold immediately. Similarly, the pre-sale allocations for the first two days of the Tests at the Gabba in Brisbane and the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) were quickly snapped up. Notably, the Gabba will host its first-ever day-night Ashes Test, adding to the excitement around the series.
Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia’s CEO, expressed his surprise at the overwhelming response. “The record demand for tickets shows the excitement fans are feeling about the fantastic international season to come,” Greenberg said. “Surpassing our previous ticket sales record even before tickets for New South Wales and Western Australia went on sale is a remarkable achievement and confirms cricket’s place as Australia’s national sport.”
He urged fans who have not yet purchased tickets to act quickly. “We expect some days to sell out fast. We can’t wait for an unforgettable summer of international cricket,” he added.
The high demand is fueled in part by the thrilling 2023 Ashes series in the UK, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Memorable moments, such as Australia’s close win at Edgbaston and the controversial stumping of Jonny Bairstow at Lord’s, have raised anticipation for the Australian series.
The return of international fans, especially the famous Barmy Army, is also expected to boost attendance. Travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic had limited overseas fan participation in the 2021-22 series.
The 2025-26 season features a busy schedule beyond the Ashes. Australia’s men’s team will play in every state and territory for the first time in history. South Africa will tour northern Australia for a series of ODIs and T20Is, marking the return of international cricket to Darwin after 17 years. India will also play an eight-game white-ball tour across eight cities in October and November.
Fans can still buy tickets during the priority pre-sale, which runs until midnight AEST on June 12. After that, remaining tickets go on sale to the general public starting Friday, June 13. Given the strong demand, early purchase is advised.
Australia’s Schedule vs. England
- Nov 21-25: West Test, Perth Stadium, Perth
- Dec 4-8: Day-Night Test, The Gabba, Brisbane
- Dec 17-21: Christmas Test, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- Dec 26-30: Boxing Day Test, MCG, Melbourne
- Jan 4-8: Pink Test, SCG, Sydney
