Perth Test becomes shortest Ashes match in over 100 years

The Ashes Test in Perth has gone down in history as the shortest Ashes match ever played on Australian soil in more than 100 years, concluding inside just two days.

The match lasted 847 balls, making it the third-shortest Ashes Test overall. Only two matches in the 1888 Ashes series in England were shorter, 788 balls at Old Trafford and 792 at Lord’s. The previous shortest Test in Australia was at the SCG in 1894/95, which lasted 911 balls.

England’s batting struggled throughout, facing just 405 deliveries across two innings, marking their third-shortest combined effort in a Test where they were dismissed twice. Only the 1904 MCG Test (325 balls) and the 1888 Lord’s Test (388 balls) were shorter.

Australia completed the chase of 205 in 28.2 overs at an astonishing 7.23 runs per over, the fastest successful chase of 200 or more in Test history.

The early finish, however, has had serious financial implications for Cricket Australia. With the match ending before the third day, the board was forced to refund all tickets for Days 3 and 4.

Estimates indicate a financial loss of at least 2 million AUD, with some reports suggesting up to 3 million AUD. Broadcasters also faced reduced revenue due to shorter telecast hours and fewer advertising opportunities.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed concern, noting that the abrupt end would impact broadcasters, sponsors, and overall series revenue. The board had already reported an $11.3 million deficit last year, and analysts warn the Perth Test’s early finish may further strain the domestic cricket market.