Which Players are most likely to affect the Ashes outcomes

Right now, The Ashes betting odds for 2025 show Australia as the favourites—with odds of 4/6—followed by a draw at 9/2, and an England win at 9/4. However, beyond these outright series bets, The Ashes also gives cricket fans plenty of other cricket betting opportunities throughout the series, such as series correct scoring, match-betting, top-scoring players, and more.

When bookmakers and bettors are trying to predict the outcome of an Ashes series, certain players usually shift the odds more than others. Several factors hinge on small margins but can have big impacts on betting markets, for example historical performance, home advantage, and the fitness of players. A single injury to a key bowler, a sudden return to form for a top-order batter, or even selection uncertainty can trigger odds movements across multiple markets.

Below are the players to watch—and how their performances may change cricket betting—as the 2025–26 Ashes tour gets closer.

Pat Cummins (Australia)

He is Australia’s captain, and it’s no surprise that he’s made the list. He is one of the team’s most formidable bowlers. Australia has a large advantage due to his pace, control and early breakthrough, especially with the new ball in home conditions. If Cummins can decelerate England’s run rate from the outset, Australia’s chances of maintaining their Ashes winning streak will be strong.

However, betting markets will definitely be taking note of the mounting fear surrounding the Aussie captain’s fitness. With the recent revelation that there are still some uncertainties surrounding Cummins’ ability to partake in the opening test of The Ashes, which is in Perth on November 21,England could put up a good fight in the first test. While Cummins claims to be doing “everything he can” to be at full fitness for the opening, anything less has the potential to shift those betting odds.

Harry Brook (England)

One of England’s most exciting young prospects is Harry Brook. While the middle-order player took a knock in the final test at The Oval, the 481 runs at a pace of 53.44 prompted former England captain Geoffrey Boycott to label Brook as a generational talent. Boycott declared that if Brooks could pair his aggressive style with a little more intelligence and care, he could be an essential player at The Ashes.

While his ability to score quickly and his resilience under pressure make him a high-value asset in shorter betting markets, like “first inning top-scorer”, his fearless style also brings volatility. And this volatility will be a factor bookmakers and bettors will carefully consider during The Ashes. If Brookes settles early in the series, it won’t be a surprise to see the betting odds shift in England’s favour.

Jofra Archer (England)

England will be hoping that Jofra Archer can keep himself fit for the first test of The Ashes. Following a long period when he was sidelined by multiple injuries, including stress fractures to his back and elbow, Archer made a box-office Test comeback against India in July—taking nine wickets in two appearances.

The betting markets—particularly those focused on top wicket-taker, player of the series, or outright match winner odds— will be significantly impacted by Archer’s injury-free summer, which hopefully shows the possibility of a full-strength Archer for The Ashes.

Steve Smith (Australia)

Having scored the third-highest test runs against England, Steve Smith has long been a thorn in England’s side. While the 2025–26 Ashes Series may be his last tour, the former captain remains one of the most technically gifted batters in the world of cricket. Smith will be desperate to go out on top, and on home soil he’s almost always a threat. Smith made note of Australia’s home advantage when claiming that Aussie pitches will provide a different challenge than England’s batters are used to.

In betting markets, a big score by Smith early on would likely swing futures bets for Australia. Along with the possible series decider in Sydney, it won’t come as a surprise if betting odds consider the delivery of one final masterclass by Smith.

Josh Hazlewood (Australia)

Often overlooked in favour of flashier teammates, like Starc and Cummins, Hazlewood is still one of the most dependable seamers in world cricket. His relentless accuracy and ability to extract movement from even the flattest surfaces make him a consistent threat, particularly to England’s top order. While he may not grab headlines, Hazlewood regularly picks up key wickets in the middle overs, which halts game momentum.

When other uncertainties among player selection arise, Hazlewood’s consistency makes him a popular pick for “top first innings bowler” and “most maidens bowled” markets. His subtle influence can also impact live odds, especially if he can pin down batters like Crawley early in their innings. For bettors looking for low-variance, steady performers, Hazlewood is often a reliable figure around whom betting strategies are built.

Final Thoughts

As the countdown to the 2025–26 Ashes continues, betting markets will be shaped not just by historical stats or team rankings, but by the fine margins determined by individual players. Whether it’s the game-breaking brilliance of Jofra Archer, the reliability of Josh Hazlewood, or the unpredictability of Harry Brook, player form and fitness will remain central to every major betting shift throughout the series.

Australia are currently leading the odds, mainly due to their home advantage and experienced core giving them the upper hand. However, England’s flair, depth, and aggressive intent should not be underestimated in other betting avenues. For punters, staying up to date with team news, injuries, and selection gambles will be key to navigating the volatility of cricket betting markets during The Ashes 2025. Ultimately, as history has shown, a single performance can turn not just a match, but an entire series on its head, and those dedicated to the ride will be best positioned to call the odds.