Cricket Australia has officially confirmed that Cricket 26, developed by Big Ant Studios and published by Nacon, will launch on November 20, 2025 — just one day before the first Test of the NRMA Insurance Ashes Series begins in Perth.

The timing couldn’t be better. With the Ashes once again taking center stage, Cricket 26 gives fans a chance to live the rivalry in their own way, turning one of cricket’s greatest traditions into an interactive experience that blurs the lines between the real and virtual worlds.

A Strong Partnership Between Cricket and Gaming

This release continues Cricket Australia’s long-standing partnership with Big Ant Studios, showcasing how professional sports bodies are increasingly using gaming as a way to connect with fans beyond the stadium.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg believes this partnership captures the spirit of the game perfectly.
“The Ashes is the pinnacle of cricketing rivalry and captures the imagination of fans everywhere,” Greenberg said. “Cricket 26 brilliantly recreates that contest, allowing players to experience the intensity, drama and history of the Ashes. We are delighted to once again partner with Big Ant Studios to bring this iconic sporting battle to life.”

Big Ant Studios Promises Realism and Emotion

Big Ant Studios CEO Ross Symons described Cricket 26 as a major leap forward for cricket gaming, especially with an expanded Ashes Mode designed to bring the rivalry to life like never before.
“Cricket’s biggest rivalry is back, bigger than ever,” Symons said. “We’ve worked tirelessly with Cricket Australia and the ECB to make sure fans can relive one of sport’s greatest contests in the most authentic and dramatic way possible.”

The team at Big Ant has worked closely with both Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board to refine gameplay, stadium atmospheres and player likenesses, ensuring every detail feels true to life.

New Features and Expanded Global Presence

One of the biggest additions to Cricket 26 is the new Management Career Mode, where players can take charge of entire teams, manage finances and build long-term strategies. It’s a feature designed to give fans a taste of what it’s like to run a cricket club from the inside out.

Beyond gameplay, the title also expands its international scope, featuring licensed teams and leagues from around the world, including the Caribbean Premier League, Cricket Ireland, the West Indies, Pakistan and top Indian T20 franchises. This makes Cricket 26 a truly global experience, reflecting cricket’s growing popularity across continents.

A Game That Reflects the Spirit of The Ashes

The release of Cricket 26 just before The Ashes is more than clever timing — it’s a celebration of the sport’s passion, rivalry and tradition. With the addition of new modes and global licenses, the game aims to attract both long-time cricket lovers and a new generation of fans discovering the sport through gaming.

When Cricket 26 arrives on November 20, it will not only mark another milestone in cricket’s digital journey but also set the tone for an unforgettable Ashes summer.