ECB signals opposition to future pink-ball Ashes clashes
England’s cricket board is reportedly preparing to turn down any proposals for pink-ball Tests in the next Ashes series in Australia, scheduled for 2029–30. The move follows post-series discussions between senior figures at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Australia (CA), during which concerns were raised over the competitive imbalance such fixtures might introduce into the sport’s most storied rivalry, according to a report by BBC Sport’s Timothy Abraham.
While no formal announcement has been made, the ECB’s reluctance has reportedly been made clear behind closed doors, with feedback shared shortly after England’s 4-1 series defeat — including an emphatic eight-wicket loss in the day-night Test at the Gabba.
A format that favors Australia?
Since their introduction in 2015, pink-ball Tests have been enthusiastically adopted by Australia, both for their commercial appeal and sporting success. Of the 25 day-night Tests played worldwide, 14 have been hosted in Australia. The home team has won 14 of their 15 pink-ball matches — a staggering record that has not gone unnoticed by opponents.
In contrast, England have struggled under lights, winning just two of their seven pink-ball Tests, including four losses on Australian soil. The disparity has sparked debate over whether the format should be a fixture in future Ashes contests, particularly given the unfamiliar conditions and lack of red-ball-like movement offered by the pink ball.
Adding to the complexity, pink-ball Tests are not mandated by broadcasting contracts in Australia, and none of the eight Tests against Bangladesh and New Zealand in the 2026–27 season are expected to use the format.
Anniversary match at MCG still on the cards — for now
While England appear ready to shut the door on further day-night Ashes Tests, one such match remains on the horizon. Plans are in place for a one-off pink-ball Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in March 2027, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the first-ever Test match at the same venue. First announced in August 2024, the commemorative fixture is expected to go ahead with England granted a warm-up match beforehand.
However, according to BBC Sport’s Timothy Abraham, the decision to stage that anniversary Test under lights has not been universally welcomed. At least one influential former Australian cricketer has reportedly advised CA to revert to a traditional red-ball game.
Despite pushback, broadcasters continue to support the pink-ball format due to its prime-time scheduling benefits — with the Brisbane Ashes Test drawing higher ratings than matches in Perth and Adelaide.
