Michael Vaughan sparks debate, says India-Australia rivalry still no match for the Ashes

Former England captain Michael Vaughan reignites the cricket rivalry debate, claiming the iconic Ashes series between England and Australia remains bigger than India vs Australia.

The cricketing world has been abuzz with excitement as India and Australia renew their high-voltage rivalry in the ongoing 2025 Test series. However, former England captain Michael Vaughan has stirred the pot with a pointed remark that reignited the age-old debate, which is the greatest rivalry in Test cricket? In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Vaughan acknowledged the quality of the India-Australia contests but maintained that nothing quite compares to the Ashes between England and Australia.

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Michael Vaughan’s subtle dig rekindles the rivalry debate

Vaughan’s comments came amid the buzz surrounding the India-Australia series, which has been closely contested over recent years. He praised the intensity and competitiveness of the encounters between the two modern giants of Test cricket but cautioned fans not to confuse recency with legacy. “No question the India v Aussie series of late down under have been more competitive,” Vaughan wrote. “But don’t tell they are bigger than an Ashes the build-up down in Oz for this Ashes is absolutely huge.”

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His statement underscores a broader sentiment among traditionalists that the Ashes, with its deep historical roots dating back to 1882, still holds a prestige that newer rivalries are yet to match. For decades, the Ashes have symbolized cricket’s greatest theatre, filled with drama, emotion, and enduring narratives between England and Australia.

That said, India’s rise in world cricket, particularly their series wins in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21, has reshaped the global cricket landscape. Many fans argue that the India-Australia rivalry now carries equal, if not greater, competitive energy. Vaughan’s remarks have therefore sparked a passionate discussion online, with supporters divided between the sport’s glorious tradition and its thrilling modern evolution.

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Where to Watch The Ashes 2025

Cricket fans in India can watch the Ashes 2025 series LIVE from November 21 on SonyLIV, accessible via OTTplay Premium.

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