The 2025-26 Ashes opener lasted just two days, with Australia registering a thumping eight-wicket victory over England at Perth Stadium.

Despite the Test finishing with three days to spare, the ICC match referee Ranjan Madugalle gave the Perth pitch a “very good” rating, denoting good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent early bounce.

“The match referee’s ‘very good’ rating justifies our belief Perth Stadium produced a pitch that provided a fair balance between bat and ball,” CA chief of cricket James Allsopp said in a statement.

“The dominance of some brilliant pace bowling from both sides and the frenetic nature of the contest meant the match lasted only two days.

“This was disappointing for fans holding tickets for days three and four, but we saw some incredible moments.”

Australia gained a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series after their fast bowlers ran through the England batting line-up twice, setting up 205-run chase, which was achieved late on Day 2 on the back of Travis Head’s brutal 123 off 83 balls.

With day three a sell-out, Cricket Australia missed out on millions of dollars in revenue from ticket sales.

The two teams will square off in the second Ashes Test, starting December 4 at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane.

(With Reuters Inputs)