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England Set to Face PM’s XI in Pink-Ball Clash Ahead of Day-Night Ashes Test
England’s Preparations for Ashes 2025 Intensify with PM’s XI Game
England will face the Prime Minister’s XI in a rare two-day pink-ball warm-up match ahead of the upcoming day-night Ashes Test against Australia. Cricket Australia officially confirmed the development on Tuesday, July 29. The fixture is scheduled to take place at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on November 29 and 30, strategically slotted between the first and second Ashes Tests.
This match marks a historic shift in tradition — while England has previously taken on the PM’s XI in one-day formats, this will be the first instance of the encounter extending into multi-day territory, a significant move to prepare the visiting team for pink-ball conditions under lights.
England’s Rare Two-Day Outing Against PM’s XI
Traditionally, the PM’s XI matches have been a one-day affair, usually seen as a ceremonial and promotional game. However, since the 2022-23 season, the format has evolved, providing touring teams with meaningful match practice ahead of marquee contests.
The upcoming pink-ball game is designed to help England adjust to the unique challenges of a day-night Test. With the second Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane set to begin on December 4 under lights, this fixture presents a crucial opportunity for players to adapt to pink-ball conditions.
For a complete schedule of the Ashes 2025 fixtures and squad details, click here.
PM’s XI Squad to Feature Top Domestic Talent
Albanese’s Statement and Squad Selection Insights
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed enthusiasm about the match, noting that he looks forward to finalizing a competitive PM’s XI squad. He emphasized that the team will feature some of the best available domestic talent across Australia, ensuring a strong challenge for the visiting English side.
“I look forward to meeting with the selectors to finalise a PM’s XI squad that showcases the best available talent from across Australia to take on the strong English team,” Albanese remarked.
The fixture not only aids England’s acclimatization but also serves as a platform for emerging Australian talent to test themselves against high-quality international opposition.
England’s Warm-Up Schedule Before Ashes Second Test
Before taking on the PM’s XI, England will engage in an intra-squad practice match against the England Lions, their official second-tier team. This intra-squad match will help selectors finalize the playing XI for the first Test in Perth. With tight scheduling between the matches, England’s management is focusing on maximizing every opportunity for match simulation and team cohesion.
Read more about the history and significance of the Prime Minister’s XI on Cricket Australia’s official site.
The PM’s XI fixture is set to play a pivotal role in England’s preparation for the highly anticipated pink-ball Ashes Test at the Gabba. The game not only breaks new ground with its multi-day format but also highlights Australia’s commitment to providing competitive build-up opportunities for touring sides. With both sides eyeing glory in this edition of the Ashes, every session and warm-up encounter could prove decisive.
