Cricket legend Sir James Anderson has weighed in on the 2025 Ashes series, suggesting that despite fielding what many consider Australia’s “weakest” side in over a decade, the hosts remain favourites to retain the Ashes.

Anderson, England’s all-time leading wicket-taker, shared his insights while reflecting on recent comments by former teammate Stuart Broad, who claimed the current Australian team is the “worst since 2010.” Broad’s remarks came in response to former Australian opener David Warner’s prediction that England could be whitewashed 4-0 in the upcoming series.

Anderson and Broad were both part of the triumphant England side that famously won in Australia in 2010-11. Since then, England has struggled on Australian soil, suffering heavy defeats in three consecutive tours, losing 5-0, 4-0, and 4-0 respectively.

“I don’t think England are quite favourites. I’d say Australia are still favourites, in Australia,” Anderson told TNT Sports, highlighting the enduring strength of the home side despite the uncertainty in their lineup.

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2025 Ashes: Key Updates and Team Concerns

The first Ashes Test is set to take place in Perth on Friday, 21 November 2025, with Australia led by Steve Smith in the absence of injured captain Pat Cummins. Cummins, who has been sidelined with a lower back injury, remains “on track” to return for the second Test, a day-night fixture in Brisbane starting on 4 December.

Australia’s selection dilemmas extend to their top-order batting. Usman Khawaja is slated to open, but the team must decide whether to give a debut to Jake Weatherald, recall in-form Marnus Labuschagne as an opener or number three, and determine Cameron Green’s position in the batting order.

Anderson noted that these selection uncertainties, compared to the stability Australia has maintained over the past decade, indicate this could indeed be “their weakest team” since the 2010-11 Ashes series.

“There are question marks there, definitely, and there are cracks that England could potentially expose. There’s a great chance for England to get on top early,” Anderson said.

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Why Australia Are Still Ashes Favourites

Despite Australia’s perceived weaknesses, Anderson emphasized that the team still possesses a high level of quality in both batting and bowling departments. Even without Cummins, Australia retains formidable talent, making them slightly stronger than England on paper.

“They probably just edge out England in terms of being favourites, but I don’t think there’s much in it. It’s a tough one to call, so I’d say Australia, just,” Anderson concluded.

England will aim to capitalize on any gaps in the Australian lineup and finally break the run of Ashes defeats on Australian soil. Fans worldwide will be eagerly watching how the 2025 series unfolds.