Australia to tour England for first Ashes series in 22 years

One of sport’s great international rivalries will be reignited in 2025 with the historic return of The Ashes.

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), alongside Rugby League Commercial and The Rugby Football League, and International Rugby League, today announced the Australian Kangaroos and England will contest the first three-Test Ashes series since 2003, with matches to be played across England in October and November. 

ARLC Chairman, Peter V’landys AM said Kangaroo Tours have produced some of greatest moments in the history of the game.

“We are proud to revive one of the great Rugby League traditions with the first Ashes series and Kangaroo Tour of England in 22 years. The ARLC believes in the international game and the Commission was behind this historic tour to support the growth of the game in the North.

“Kangaroos Tours are an iconic part of Rugby League folklore and have always delivered thrilling contests. The current generation of Kangaroos players have never experienced the magic of a Kangaroos Tour, and I’m delighted that they will have a chance to cement their own legacy alongside the greats of the past.”

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the return of the Kangaroos UK tour will excite fans on both sides of the globe.

“The Kangaroos have not toured the UK since 2003 and this series will take international Rugby League to the next level.”

"The Ashes has such a storied history, with so many legendary moments that make up the fabric of rugby league across multiple generations. A Kangaroos Tour unites the rugby league southern and northern hemispheres and is an incredible opportunity to grow the international game.”

Rhodri Jones, Rugby League Commercial Managing Director, said: “This is the news we’ve all been waiting for - everyone in the England set-up, and tens of thousands of England Rugby League fans. We welcome back Mal Meninga and the Kangaroos to England for an Ashes series, and we have three fantastic venues which will showcase the very best of International Rugby League. 

“After 22 years this is rivalry reignited that will have a truly national resonance as England look to regain the Rugby League Ashes.”

The 2025 Ashes will kick off with the first Test at Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday 25 October.

The second Test will be played at Everton Stadium a brand-new 53,000-seat state of the art facility in Liverpool, on Saturday 1 November.

Leeds will play host to the third and final Test in Rugby League heartland at Headingley Stadium, home of the Leeds Rhinos on Saturday 8 November.

The Ashes 2025

England v Kangaroos

First Test - Saturday 25 October, Wembley Stadium, London 

Second Test - Saturday 1 November, Everton Stadium, Liverpool 

Third Test - Saturday 8 November, Headingley Stadium, Leeds 

All matches will kick off at 2:30pm local time (1:30am Sunday AEDT).