Cricket: No Ashes 2027 Tests to take place in the north of England

The England and Wales Cricket Board has finalized the venue schedule for the 2027 Ashes series, concentrating all five Test matches in the Midlands and southern regions of England. The decision excludes two historically significant northern grounds that have hosted memorable moments in cricket's oldest international rivalry.

Headingley in Leeds and Old Trafford in Manchester have been central to Ashes history, hosting performances by legendary figures including Don Bradman, who scored multiple triple centuries at Headingley during the 1930s, and Ian Botham, whose exploits during the 1981 series remain celebrated. More recently, Ben Stokes achieved an unbeaten century at Headingley during the 2019 series in a dramatic one-wicket victory.

The 2027 series will begin at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on June 18, followed by Lord's hosting the traditional second Test on June 30. Edgbaston in Birmingham will stage the third match on July 8, while Hampshire's Rose Bowl near Southampton will host its inaugural Ashes Test as the fourth match beginning July 21. The series will conclude at the Oval in south London from July 29 to August 2.

The exclusion of northern venues prompted criticism from British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who had previously served as mayor of Greater Manchester. However, both Old Trafford and Headingley are scheduled to host Ashes Tests during the 2031 series. The Rose Bowl's selection marks the tenth United Kingdom ground to stage a men's Ashes Test.