The highly anticipated return of the Ashes in rugby league, after a 22-year hiatus, brought with it immense excitement and a palpable sense of occasion. The video above captures the thrilling moments from Game One of the 2025 Ashes test series, where England faced off against the formidable Kangaroos. While the match presented a stern challenge for England, it also showcased the relentless power and precision that is characteristic of top-tier international rugby league, with Australia ultimately delivering a dominant performance that cemented their early advantage.
The Return of the Ashes: A 22-Year Anticipation
For over two decades, rugby league fans around the globe had awaited the return of The Ashes. This iconic rivalry, steeped in history and tradition, reignited a fiery passion that was evident from the moment Lewis commenced play. It was not merely a game; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of international rugby league, with England carrying the mantle in what was once a Great Britain affair. The energy within Wembley Stadium, packed with 60,000 passionate supporters, was electric, a cauldron of anticipation and national pride. The echoes of previous battles were certainly felt, as the stage was set for another chapter in this historic contest between the England Kangaroos.
England’s Early Defensive Resolve and Attacking Flashes
From the outset, England demonstrated commendable defensive resolve. Plenty of numbers were committed to the tackles, effectively stifling Australia’s initial attacking forays. This early defensive effort was particularly impressive, indicating a clear game plan to deny the Kangaroos space and rhythm. Dom Young, a player with undeniable NRL pedigree, showcased powerful carries on the front foot, serving as a consistent threat. Early attacking plays were also instigated, with Williams’ strategic kick deep into Australia’s half being a notable example. However, despite strong defensive efforts and glimpses of attacking flair, the Australian line, like an unyielding fortress, was not easily breached.
Australia’s Clinical Execution: Walsh’s Swan Dive and Crichton’s Finish
As the first half progressed, the Kangaroos patiently probed, awaiting their opportunity to strike. Eventually, space was found, and when it was, Australia made it pay with clinical precision. A dynamic sequence involving Munster, Cleary, and Walsh culminated in a spectacular moment. Reece Walsh, known for his electrifying speed and agility, evaded defenders before executing a memorable ‘swan dive’ to score, sending a clear message of intent. This try was not merely points on the board; it was a significant shift in momentum, akin to the first stone being dislodged from a defensive wall, creating immediate pressure on England. The precision with which the play was executed highlighted Australia’s strategic brilliance and individual talent, traits often seen in NRL Ashes encounters.
Resilience and Missed Opportunities for England
Following Australia’s score, a big response was undoubtedly required from England. Plays were initiated, with Lewis and Williams combining effectively, and Warrell showcasing an excellent dummy. However, crucial moments were hampered by misfortune. A lost ball, which reset the tackle count to ‘back to zero’, disrupted promising attacking sets and stifled momentum. England’s pursuit of a crucial try before half-time, especially a powerful run from Tom Johnston that nearly saw Jack Wellsby score, exemplified their determination. But, like a well-drilled army, Australia managed to hold their line, ensuring that England’s close attempts did not translate into points. The fine margins in a contest of this magnitude often dictate the outcome, and England was left to rue these near misses, understanding the importance of converting pressure into points against such formidable opponents in the NRL Ashes.
Second Half Dynamics: Strategic Kicks and Defensive Battles
The early stages of the second half saw an intensification of the tactical battle. Strategic kicks became a key weapon, with Tess Litton’s “brilliant” kick pushing Australia deep into their own territory. However, a major threat was immediately presented by Reece Walsh, whose ability to turn defence into attack is legendary. As commentators noted, “you don’t want to give him a yard,” a testament to his explosive running. Walsh’s subsequent steaming run downfield illustrated this danger, requiring a desperate, yet “brilliant,” ankle tap tackle from Herbie Farnworth to prevent a certain try. Similarly, England’s defensive resilience was highlighted when Tom Johnston, after being beaten in the air, showed incredible recovery to maintain possession and deny Australia a scoring opportunity. These defensive heroics and strategic plays are often the unsung heroes in a high-stakes NRL Ashes match.
Australia’s Decisive Blow: Crichton Secures the Win
Despite England’s valiant defensive efforts, Australia’s relentless attacking prowess eventually told. A flowing movement, once again orchestrated through the halves of Cleary and Munster, saw a dummy thrown that deceived the English defence. Crichton was then unleashed to finish the move, securing what was largely considered the game-winning try. The commentator’s observation that England’s fullback, Jack Wellsby, seemed momentarily unsure of his position underscored the speed and deception of Australia’s attack. This second try provided the Kangaroos with a comfortable buffer, effectively settling the contest and leaving England with a significant mountain to climb. The clinical nature of Australia’s play in these decisive moments served as a stark reminder of their status as world leaders in rugby league, especially in a series as important as the NRL Ashes 2025.
Wembley’s Roar and Late Flashes of English Spirit
Even as the clock wound down and Australia’s victory became clear, the 60,000 strong Wembley crowd remained engaged, eagerly awaiting “something to cheer.” Their patience was rewarded when Darrel Clark, emerging from dummy half, managed to breach the Australian line, putting much-needed points on the board for England. While this try served as a consolation, it was also a crucial moment of pride and a demonstration that England would fight until the very end. The match concluded with tensions flaring, a natural outcome of such a bruising and high-stakes encounter between two fiercely competitive nations. This late display of fighting spirit, even in defeat, provides a foundation for England to build upon for the next test in the NRL Ashes series.
Building Towards the Next Test: Reflections and Regrets
Australia emerged victorious in Game One of the Ashes test series, their performance being described as “ruthlessly good,” with Reece Walsh in particular “icing the cake” with his electrifying play. For Shaun Wane and the England squad, there will undoubtedly be regrets over missed opportunities and crucial errors that proved costly. However, as was rightly noted, there are “plenty of things to build on.” The experience gained from facing such a dominant Australian side, combined with the glimpses of strong defence and attacking potential shown by England, offers valuable lessons. Adjustments will certainly be made, strategies refined, and a renewed determination brought to the subsequent tests. The stage has been set for the remainder of the NRL Ashes 2025 series, promising more intense rugby league action as England seeks to respond to this initial defeat.
Beyond the Try Line: Your 2025 Ashes 1st Test Q&A
What is ‘The Ashes’ in rugby league?
The Ashes is an iconic and historic rivalry in rugby league, typically played between England (or Great Britain) and Australia. This series marked its return after a 22-year break.
Who played in the first Test match of the 2025 Ashes series?
The first Test match of the 2025 Ashes series was played between England and the Kangaroos, which is the national rugby league team of Australia.
Who won the first game of the 2025 Ashes series?
Australia, also known as the Kangaroos, won the first game of the 2025 Ashes test series against England. They delivered a dominant performance to secure the early advantage.
Where was the first game of the 2025 Ashes series held?
The first game of the 2025 Ashes series between England and the Kangaroos was held at Wembley Stadium. It was packed with 60,000 passionate supporters.