what time does the cricket start

What Time Does the Cricket Start? Your Complete Guide to Ashes 2025/26 Match Times in Australia

The Ashes is back—and this time, it’s not just about pride. With England needing a miracle to keep their urn dreams alive, every session, every over, and yes—even the start time—matters. For cricket fans across Australia, knowing exactly what time the cricket starts isn’t just a matter of convenience; it’s essential viewing strategy. Whether you’re tuning in from Sydney, Melbourne, or Adelaide under the summer sun (or storm clouds), we’ve got you covered with verified session times, broadcast details, and everything you need to catch every ball of the 2025/26 Ashes series.

Main Narrative: Why the Start Time Matters More Than Ever

Cricket fans know that Test matches are marathons, not sprints—but when it comes to the Ashes, even the smallest details can shift momentum. The third Test at Adelaide Oval, currently underway, has become a make-or-break moment for England. Trailing 2-0 in the five-match series, Joe Root’s side must win in Adelaide to keep any hope alive of regaining the urn on Australian soil for the first time since 2010.

But here’s the twist: this isn’t your typical daytime Test. Thanks to Adelaide’s famous day-night pink-ball format, the action kicks off under lights, creating a unique atmosphere—and a scheduling quirk that catches many casual viewers off guard. Unlike traditional Tests that begin around 10:30 AM local time, this match starts much later, aligning with prime-time TV slots but demanding careful planning for fans juggling work, family, or travel.

According to verified reports from The Advertiser and cricket.com.au, the Adelaide Test has already been affected by extreme weather, with scorching temperatures giving way to stormy conditions—adding another layer of unpredictability to an already tense contest. As one journalist noted during live coverage: “Stormy weather set to bowl over Ashes crowd after scorching start.”

This blend of high stakes, environmental challenges, and non-traditional scheduling makes knowing what time the cricket starts more critical than ever—not just for attendance, but for engagement, analysis, and national morale.

Recent Updates: Session Times, Weather Warnings & Live Action

Let’s cut to the chase: When does the third Ashes Test actually begin?

Based on official scheduling and confirmed by multiple trusted sources—including Cricket Australia and live match updates—the third Test at Adelaide Oval runs from Wednesday, December 17 to Sunday, December 21, 2025. Each day features three sessions with the following structure (all times ACDT – Australian Central Daylight Time):

• Session 1: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
• Tea Break: 4:30 PM – 4:50 PM
• Session 2: 4:50 PM – 6:50 PM
• Dinner Break: 6:50 PM – 7:30 PM
• Session 3: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM

⏰ First ball each day: 2:30 PM ACDT

This means if you’re in Sydney or Melbourne (AEDT), add one hour—so the action starts at 3:30 PM. In Perth (AWST), subtract two hours: 12:30 PM. Always double-check your local listings, especially during daylight saving transitions.

Weather Impact: Adelaide has seen dramatic swings—from 40°C heatwaves to sudden thunderstorms. The Advertiser reported that grounds staff were on high alert, with covers deployed and pitch inspections frequent. Such conditions can delay play, so fans are advised to follow live updates via the official Cricket Australia app or broadcasters like Channel 7 and Kayo Sports.

Meanwhile, on-field drama continues to unfold. Travis Head’s aggressive batting and Pat Cummins’ disciplined bowling have kept Australia in control, while England’s Ben Stokes remains under intense scrutiny. As The Australian noted in its live blog: “‘He needs help’: England legend fears for Stokes without assistance.” The pressure is mounting—and every session counts.

Contextual Background: The Ashes, Adelaide, and the Pink Ball Revolution

To truly appreciate why this Test’s timing is so significant, it helps to understand the broader context.

The Ashes is more than a cricket series—it’s a cultural institution. Dating back to 1882, the rivalry between Australia and England transcends sport, embodying national identity, colonial history, and sporting excellence. Winning at home is everything for Australia; losing would be unthinkable. For England, a victory in Adelaide could spark a historic comeback—only one team in Test history (Don Bradman’s 1936–37 side) has overturned a 2-0 deficit in an Ashes series.

Adelaide Oval, host of this pivotal Test, holds a special place in cricket lore. Known for its picturesque setting, electric atmosphere, and innovative use of floodlights, it became the first Australian venue to host a day-night Ashes Test in 2017. Since then, the pink ball under lights has become a staple—offering cooler playing conditions, enhanced visibility for TV audiences, and a fresh twist on tradition.

But the format isn’t without controversy. Some purists argue the pink ball behaves differently—swinging more under lights, deteriorating faster—giving an edge to pace bowlers and disrupting batting rhythms. Others praise its modern appeal, drawing younger crowds and boosting prime-time ratings.

For Australian viewers, this shift also means adjusting routines. Gone are the days of tuning in mid-morning with a cuppa. Now, Ashes Tests often clash with afternoon school pickups, early dinners, or evening commitments. That’s why clarity on cricket start times is no longer a nicety—it’s a necessity.

Immediate Effects: How Scheduling Shapes Fan Engagement and Broadcast Strategy

The move to late-afternoon starts isn’t accidental. Broadcasters and cricket administrators have deliberately aligned Test matches with peak television audiences. Channel 7, which holds free-to-air rights, reports record viewership for day-night Tests—particularly among 18–49-year-olds who traditionally tune out of daytime sport.

But there’s a trade-off. Working Australians—especially those in regional areas or shift-based jobs—may miss key moments. Schools and workplaces are increasingly hosting “Ashes viewing parties,” while pubs and clubs promote early finishes for staff wanting to catch the action.

Economically, the impact is tangible. Adelaide’s hospitality sector sees a surge during Test week, with hotels, restaurants, and transport services capitalizing on the influx. According to Tourism SA, major cricket events contribute over $50 million annually to the state’s economy—proof that timing isn’t just about convenience, but commerce.

Socially, the shared experience of watching Australia dominate (or struggle) on home soil strengthens community bonds. Social media explodes with memes, hot takes, and real-time reactions—often timed to session breaks. Knowing when tea or dinner intervals occur allows fans to plan their online engagement strategically.

And let’s not forget the players. Adjusting to a 2:30 PM start requires altered sleep patterns, meal timing, and mental preparation. Captains like Pat Cummins have spoken about the “unique rhythm” of day-night Tests, where momentum can shift dramatically between sessions.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Ashes Scheduling and Australian Cricket?

As the 2025/26 Ashes series unfolds, several trends are emerging that could reshape how—and when—Australia plays Test cricket.

1. More Day-Night Tests: With successful experiments in Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth, expect future Ashes series to feature multiple pink-ball matches. This could mean even later start times, potentially pushing first ball to 3:00 PM or beyond to maximize global broadcast windows.

2. Globalization of Viewing Habits: As streaming platforms like Kayo, Stan Sport, and Foxtel Now dominate, real-time access is erasing time-zone barriers. However, Australian fans still prefer localised scheduling—suggesting a hybrid model may emerge: traditional daytime Tests for purists, day-night for prime-time appeal.

3. Climate Adaptation: With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, Cricket Australia is investing in advanced pitch covers, drainage systems, and flexible scheduling protocols. Future Ashes Tests may include “reserve hours” or adjusted session lengths to accommodate disruptions—without sacrificing broadcast commitments.

4. Fan-Centric Innovation: Apps now send push notifications for session starts, rain delays, and wicket alerts. Expect AI-driven personalisation—customised start-time reminders based on your location, team allegiance, and viewing history.

For now, though, the focus remains firmly