Cricket Australia Partners with Big Ant Studios for Cricket 26 Launch Ahead of Ashes

Cricket Australia (CA) has confirmed the upcoming release of Cricket 26, developed by Big Ant Studios and published by Nacon, set to launch on 20 November 2025, one day before the first Test of the NRMA Insurance Ashes Series begins in Perth.

The release marks the continuation of CA’s longstanding partnership with Big Ant Studios, reflecting a growing intersection between professional sports bodies and interactive entertainment as a commercial engagement tool.

The collaboration aims to expand cricket’s digital footprint and deepen fan engagement ahead of one of the sport’s most lucrative broadcast events.

Sharing how the game’s release provides another avenue for the sport to connect with its fan base during a marquee series, Cricket Australia CEO, Todd Greenberg, said: “The Ashes is the pinnacle of cricketing rivalry and captures the imagination of fans everywhere.”

Cricket 26 brilliantly recreates that contest, allowing players to experience the intensity, drama and history of the Ashes. We are delighted to once again partner with Big Ant Studios to help bring this iconic sporting battle to life,” Greenberg said.

Adding how the studio worked closely with both CA and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to deliver a more sophisticated gameplay experience, CEO of Big Ant Studios, Ross Symons, added: “Cricket’s biggest rivalry is back, bigger than ever, with an expanded Ashes Mode… We’ve worked tirelessly with Cricket Australia and the ECB to ensure fans can relive one of sport’s greatest contests in the most authentic and dramatic way possible.”

Positioned as the “most authentic cricket experience” to date, Cricket 26 introduces a new Management Career Mode, allowing players to oversee squad operations, finances, and long-term strategy.

The title also enhances international representation, featuring licensed teams and leagues including the Caribbean Premier League, Cricket Ireland, the West Indies, Pakistan, and Indian T20 franchises.

The inclusion of these markets extends Cricket Australia’s reach into key territories where cricket gaming continues to drive youth engagement and brand exposure.

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