Top News

TNT change Ashes pundits as Graeme Swann replaced by ex-England star
Reach Daily Express | December 4, 2025 2:39 AM CST

TNT Sports have changed their punditry line-up as England prepare for the next phase of the Ashes after a chastening defeat in Perth. The tourists were skittled in both innings as Australia took full control by winning the opening Test in just two days. The hosts are the overwhelming favourites to extend their advantage in the second Test, which is taking place at The Gabba in Brisbane.

Every ball of the second Test will be shown live on TNT Sports in the UK. Coverage will begin at 3.30am on Thursday morning, around 30 minutes before the start of play. There has been a change in the punditry line-up, with Graeme Swann dropping out and being replaced by another familiar face.

Matt Prior, who won three Ashes series with England, will be running the rule over developments in Brisbane alongside Steven Finn and Brad Haddin. Becky Ives, meanwhile, will return as the main presenter on the ground in Australia.

Live commentary will be provided by Ali Ekyn and Rob Hatch, with expert analysis coming from Sir Alastair Cook and Ebony Rainford-Brent.

There is little doubt that England will be up against it at The Gabba, with Australia boasting an incredible record at the notorious Brisbane venue.

The build-up has been dominated by off-field matters after Ben Stokes, Mark Wood and Jamie Smith were pictured riding e-scooters while not wearing helmets.

In Queensland, it is a legal requirement for anyone riding an e-scooter to wear a helmet, with the England trio being thrust into the spotlight as a result.

Those falling foul of the rules can be fined up to $166 (£82) but Queensland police have confirmed that Stokes, Wood and Smith will not face any punishment.

The players were later criticised by Tim Mander, the region's minister for sport, who branded their actions 'irresponsible'. Stokes later hit out at the Australia media, insisting their damning coverage would not impact England's preparations for the upcoming Test.

He said: "If they think it is going to stop us enjoying this country when we have time off, then it is not going to do that.

"They are going to be there and film us, so the message to the group is please don't make decisions based on the fact you might get caught on camera."

Stokes was subsequently grilled on the matter during a press conference, with one reporter urging him to apologise to the people of Queensland. In response, the England captain said: "Next time we are on scooters, we will wear helmets."


READ NEXT
Cancel OK