The short answer
The 2027 Ashes series schedule was released, with Trent Bridge (Nottingham) hosting the first men's Test and Headingley (Leeds) the women's. The men's series includes five Tests at Trent Bridge, Lord's, The Oval, Edgbaston, and Old Trafford. The women's Ashes will feature a Test at Headingley, followed by ODIs and T20Is. The decision has drawn criticism for excluding northern venues like Durham and for the perceived snub to the North's cricketing heritage.Why it’s trending
The ECB's announcement of the 2027 Ashes schedule has generated controversy, with pundits like Mike Atherton questioning the fairness of the venue allocation, particularly the exclusion of northern grounds. This has sparked debate on social media and in cricket circles.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced the schedule for the 2027 Ashes series, with Trent Bridge in Nottingham set to host the first men's Test between England and Australia. The women's Ashes will begin with a Test match at Headingley in Leeds. The announcement has been met with mixed reactions, particularly from northern cricket fans who feel their region has been snubbed.
According to the ECB, the men's series will feature five Tests at Trent Bridge, Lord's, The Oval, Edgbaston, and Old Trafford. The women's Ashes will include a Test at Headingley, followed by three ODIs and three T20Is at various venues. The schedule was confirmed after consultation with the Australia Cricket Board and broadcasters.
The Times' Mike Atherton criticized the decision, arguing that the North of England has the strongest cricketing heritage and that excluding venues like Durham is unfair. He noted that the 2027 Ashes will be the first men's series since 2019 without a Test at Durham's Riverside Ground, which had hosted an Ashes Test in 2013.
The ECB defended the schedule, stating that it balances tradition with modern requirements for broadcast and commercial considerations. The 2027 Ashes are part of a broader home international season that also includes series against South Africa and Ireland.
Timeline
- ECB Announces 2027 Ashes Schedule
The ECB releases the schedule for the 2027 Ashes series, with Trent Bridge hosting the men's opener and Headingley the women's Test. (Source: BBC, ECB)
- Mike Atherton Criticizes Northern Snub
Writing in The Times, Mike Atherton argues that the North's cricketing heritage is being overlooked, particularly with Durham missing out on an Ashes Test. (Source: The Times)
- First Men's Ashes Test at Trent Bridge
The first men's Ashes Test is scheduled to begin at Trent Bridge. (Source: ECB)
- Women's Ashes Test at Headingley
The women's Ashes Test is scheduled to start at Headingley. (Source: ECB)
Questions people ask
Why is Trent Bridge hosting the first Ashes Test in 2027?
The ECB selected Trent Bridge as the opening venue for the men's Ashes, citing its strong history and modern facilities. The decision was part of a rotation of venues across the country.
Why are some people unhappy with the 2027 Ashes schedule?
Critics, including Mike Atherton, argue that the North of England has been snubbed, as Durham's Riverside Ground was not awarded an Ashes Test. They feel the region's cricketing heritage is being undervalued.
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