Ashes 2025: Zak Crawley Says England Fully Ready for Perth Test Despite Limited Warm-Up

England opener Zak Crawley remains unfazed by criticism surrounding the team’s minimal preparation for the upcoming Ashes series, insisting that England will be fully ready when the first Test begins next week at Perth Stadium.

England opted for only one warm-up fixture — a match against the England Lions at Lilac Hill — a decision that has drawn comments from analysts and former cricketers who fear the team could enter the five-Test series underprepared.

However, Crawley brushed aside the concerns, emphasising that mindset and adaptability matter more than the number of matches. England scored 426 in that lone warm-up, with Crawley smashing an aggressive 82 off 101 balls and Ben Duckett contributing 92, giving the top order a positive start.

“I don’t worry about those things. I just try to turn up and play my role,” Crawley said. He highlighted that acclimatising to Australian weather, bounce, and conditions remains the real priority.
“We’re getting used to the weather and the flies. It’s good prep. We’ll be ready.”

Perth carries personal sentiment for the 27-year-old. Crawley has previously represented Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League and expressed delight at returning to a city he deeply connects with.
“I love this town—one of my favourite places in the world. My old batting coach is from here. I feel like I’ve got a connection to Perth.”

He added that playing at Optus Stadium in front of a packed 60,000-strong crowd would be one of the most memorable occasions of his career, especially since England’s previous tour did not include a Perth fixture due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The warm-up game also delivered strong individual performances across the squad. Ben Stokes, returning from injury, struck eight boundaries and three sixes. Ollie Pope strengthened his No. 3 credentials with a composed 69, while Mark Wood contributed a fast-paced 31 and bowled sharp spells, easing concerns about his fitness.

With a mix of confidence, returning firepower, and Crawley’s bold assurance, England will now head into the opening Ashes Test with renewed belief.