Southampton's Utilita Bowl will make history by hosting its first Ashes Test in 2027, marking it as the tenth UK venue to feature in this prestigious series. The 2027 Ashes is scheduled to kick off at Trent Bridge on Friday, 18 June, breaking a tradition where Edgbaston has hosted the opening Test since 2015.

The series will proceed as follows:

• 2nd Test at Lord’s: Starts 30 June
• 3rd Test at Edgbaston: Begins 8 July
• 4th Test at Utilita Bowl: Commences 21 July
• 5th Test at Kia Oval: Kicks off 29 July

Notably, Old Trafford and Headingley will miss out on hosting matches in 2027 but are confirmed for the 2031 series. Before the Ashes, England will face Pakistan in a five-match ODI series from 15-26 May and will play a one-off Test against Bangladesh at Lord's on 28 May.

Old Trafford will also host a key match against the England Lions from June 7-10, marking the start of Australia's tour. In light of last winter's disappointing preparations, the England and Wales Cricket Board and Cricket Australia have established a new agreement to enhance readiness for future series.

If Australia advances to the World Test Championship final from June 9-13, the match against the Lions may be reassessed.

Richard Gould, Chief Executive Officer of the ECB, emphasized the significance of the Ashes, highlighting that next summer will see both the men’s and women’s teams competing against Australia at various venues. The inclusion of the England Men’s Mixed Disability team during this Ashes summer represents a landmark moment in cricket.

Overall, the summer promises a rich schedule of high-quality cricket, including a white-ball series featuring New Zealand Men, setting the stage for the 2027 ICC Men’s World Cup.