what time does the cricket start

The Ashes 2025/26: What Time Does the Cricket Start at the Gabba?

The anticipation is palpable across Australia as the Ashes series rolls into Brisbane. For cricket fans, the question isn't just who will win, but rather the practicalities of the day: "What time does the cricket start?" With the second Test featuring the unique challenge of the pink ball under lights at the Gabba, the schedule is more than just a timetable—it is a strategic element of the game itself.

As the historic rivalry between Australia and England reignites, the logistics of viewing become paramount. Whether you are planning a day at the stadium or settling in for a long evening on the couch, understanding the start times and broadcast schedules is essential. This guide breaks down exactly when the action begins, the unique context of the day-night Test, and what viewers can expect from this pivotal clash in the 2025/26 series.

The Main Narrative: The Pink-Ball Challenge at the Gabba

The second Test of the 2025/26 Ashes series is shaping up to be a defining moment in the campaign. Hosted at the Brisbane Cricket Ground (the Gabba), this match is a day-night Test, meaning the play is split between the afternoon and the evening sessions, illuminated by floodlights and played with a pink Kookaburra ball.

According to reports from Fox Sports, the question of start times is a major focus for fans. Unlike a standard day Test, where play usually commences at 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM AEST, the day-night format shifts the schedule. The inclusion of the pink ball changes the viewing experience significantly, offering a different atmosphere and often producing more dramatic swings in momentum as the light fades.

The significance of this match cannot be overstated. Australia has historically held a formidable record at the Gabba, but the introduction of the day-night format adds an element of unpredictability. As noted by ESPNcricinfo in their match preview, the "pink-ball challenge" is a test of adaptability for both sides. For England, rising to this challenge is seen as a crucial step in their quest to reclaim the urn, while Australia looks to assert their dominance in familiar, yet subtly different, conditions.

When Exactly Does the Cricket Start?

For fans asking "what time does the second Ashes Test start," the verified information points to a specific schedule tailored for maximum Australian viewership and stadium attendance.

Based on reporting from Fox Sports, the second Ashes Test at the Gabba is scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time).

Here is the breakdown of the daily schedule: * First Session: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM AEST * Interval: 5:00 PM – 5:20 PM AEST * Second Session: 5:20 PM – 7:20 PM AEST * Interval: 7:20 PM – 7:40 PM AEST * Third Session: 7:40 PM – 9:40 PM AEST (approx.)

It is important to note that play can extend later into the evening if wickets fall quickly, but the scheduled close of play is generally around 9:40 PM AEST.

Broadcasting the Battle

Knowing the start time is only half the battle; knowing where to watch is the other. In Australia, the Ashes is a marquee event. While free-to-air coverage is available on the Nine Network (9Gem or 9Now), comprehensive live coverage and expert analysis are provided by Fox Cricket (on Foxtel and Kayo Sports). This is particularly relevant for the day-night matches, as the transition from daylight to floodlights requires nuanced commentary and high-quality production to capture the changing conditions of the ball and pitch.

Contextual Background: The Evolution of Day-Night Tests

To understand why the start time of 3:00 PM is so significant, one must look at the history of the day-night Test format in Australia. The first day-night Test was played at the Gabba in 2015 between Australia and New Zealand. Since then, it has become a staple of the Australian summer, designed to boost attendance and television ratings by making the game more accessible to workers and schoolchildren during the day and prime-time viewers in the evening.

The Pink Ball vs. The Red Ball

The central piece of technology in this match is the pink cricket ball. Unlike the traditional red ball, which is difficult to see under floodlights, the pink ball offers high visibility. However, it behaves differently. Reports from The Guardian have highlighted ongoing debates among cricket bosses and players regarding the merits of day-night Test cricket. While administrators often champion the format for its commercial appeal and ability to draw larger crowds, some players have expressed concerns about the ball's behavior—specifically that it can swing and seam more dramatically, and sometimes deteriorate unpredictably compared to the red ball.

This historical context is vital. It explains why the start time is fixed to allow for the optimal "twilight" period—that critical time between 5:20 PM and 7:20 PM where the floodlights are fully operational but the sun has not fully set. Captains often view the toss as crucial in day-night Tests because winning the toss and electing to bat or bowl can depend heavily on how they judge the pink ball's movement during this specific window.

Immediate Effects: Impact on Fans and Players

The 3:00 PM start time has immediate practical implications for everyone involved.

For the Spectator: The schedule is designed to be fan-friendly. The "after-work" start allows locals in Brisbane to finish their workday and head to the Gabba, while interstate fans can tune in during the evening prime time. However, the late finish—potentially approaching 10:00 PM—requires stamina. For those watching from home, it turns a standard Test match day into a late-night event, differentiating it significantly from the traditional 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM routine.

For the Players: The conditions at the Gabba during the twilight session are notoriously difficult for batsmen. As the light changes and the pink ball "goes soft," batting becomes challenging. Conversely, this is often the best time for bowlers. The immediate effect on the game's strategy is that teams must manage their bowling resources carefully. Do you use your strike bowlers early in the day, or save them for the twilight session where they might be most lethal? The start time dictates these tactical decisions.

Economic and Social Impact: The popularity of the Ashes, fueled by convenient evening viewing times, drives significant economic activity in Brisbane. Pubs, bars, and restaurants across the city extend their hours, filled with patrons eager to catch the action. The "buzz" around the match, evidenced by high search volumes for start times, reflects the cultural significance of the series in Australian life.

The Broader Debate: Is the Format Working?

As the teams prepare for the 3:00 PM start, the debate regarding the day-night format continues. As referenced in The Guardian's coverage ("In the pink? Cricket bosses and players still not seeing benefit of day-night Tests"), there is a disconnect between the administrators who see the format as a financial and engagement necessity, and some players who argue that the traditional rhythms of Test cricket are disrupted by the pink ball and floodlights.

This tension adds a layer of intrigue to the match. When you tune in at 3:00 PM, you aren't just watching a game; you are witnessing an evolving format of the sport. Every boundary scored and wicket taken under lights is data point in the ongoing conversation about the future of Test cricket.

Future Outlook: What to Expect in Brisbane

Looking ahead to the match, the 3:00 PM start time suggests that the first hour will be critical. If Australia can utilize the new pink ball effectively in the first session, they could put England on the back foot immediately.

However, the "pink-ball challenge" mentioned by ESPNcricinfo suggests that England has studied the conditions. If they can survive the early swing and navigate the twilight period, the third session under lights—where the ball gets older and softer—might level the playing field.

Strategic Implications: 1. The Toss: The decision at the coin toss will be scrutinized intensely. Chasing under lights is often preferred, but setting a total is equally dangerous if the ball swings wildly early on. 2. Bowling Changes: Captains will likely rotate their bowlers frequently to keep the ball hard and lively for the pink ball's "dangerous" phases. 3. The Crowd Factor: A 3:00 PM start ensures the Gabba will be full by the time the floodlights take full effect. The noise levels in Brisbane during an Ashes evening session are legendary and can swing the momentum of the game.

Conclusion

For those asking "what time does