How to watch the Ashes Cricket series online in 2024

England and Australia are meeting again in the Ashes annual cricket tournament. This fiercely contested competition between the two countries has a rich history, and it continues to captivate fans with its intense battles on the pitch. However, not everyone can tune in as the series is broadcast only in several locations, like the UK or Australia.

A viable solution exists in the shape of a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Fans can use this software to change their IP addresses and bypass geographical restrictions to watch the Ashes online. In fact, you can watch the series for free on 9Now, even outside Australia, thanks to a reliable VPN. Read on to pick the best VPN and not miss a single delivery or breathtaking moment.

Best VPN for watching the Ashes series: shortlist

1. NordVPN

   Ultimate best VPN to watch the Ashes buffer-free
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Excellent budget-friendly VPN for the Ashes
   9.5

Why do you need a VPN to stream the Ashes?

In brief, the Ashes Cricket series is only broadcast in the US, the UK, and Australia. Meanwhile, enthusiasts outside these locations need third-party assistance to tune into the competition. These geo-restrictions are typically based on licensing agreements and broadcasting rights, which limit the availability of streaming services to specific countries or regions. Still, it’s proper unfair.

Cord-cutters can easily flip their fortune and overcome these inconveniences by choosing a reliable sports-streaming VPN service. It allows users to connect to servers in different countries, effectively masking their location through altered IP addresses. That way, you can watch the Ashes for free on 9Now though you’re actually deep in the forests of Finland.

However, bypassing geo-blocks is just one side of the coin. While connecting to a VPN server grants you a fresh temporary IP, the server goes the extra mile. It cloaks your web traffic in impenetrable encryption. So, the technology actively protects your online ventures and the Ashes’ streams.

A VPN for streaming could also solve certain performance issues. For example, your ISP (Internet Service Provider) may start throttling your bandwidth to prevent congestion on its servers. So, you suffer slower streams with a buffer or two. A reliable VPN service optimized for streaming can solve this issue by hiding your activities from ISP thanks to the AES-256 encryption. Besides, VPNs can usually keep up with the streaming, retaining initial speeds if you opt for an industry-leading option.

Best VPNs to watch the Ashes live: overview

1. NordVPN – overall best VPN to watch Ashes anywhere
2. Surfshark VPN – well-rounded Ashes VPN with optimal speeds

The market’s drowning in brand names claiming to be the best VPN for streaming sports, but only a handful can truly do the job without any issues. That’s because such demanding tasks as livestreaming require a set of advanced VPN capabilities. Here are some:

• Hundreds of servers in countries where the Ashes is available (Australia, the UK & US)
• WireGuard or other proprietary tunneling protocols with comparable performance
• A kill switch to prevent any possible data leaks
• Broad device compatibility to watch the matches on anything you wish
• Security features to stream the games safely and privately

We’ve tested 27 different VPNs and ultimately picked out the Top 3 services that tick all the checkboxes for serving superb Ashes’ streaming sessions.

1. NordVPN – best VPN to watch the Ashes online worldwide

NordVPN is the #1 streaming VPN suited ideally for watching the Ashes. The service sports 6900+ servers in 113 countries, boasting colossal global distribution. You can pick from any of the 190+ Australian servers to watch the games for free. Better yet, you won’t miss a breadth of the games thanks to the blazing-fast NordLynx protocol.

The SmartPlay combines the benefits of Smart DNS and encryption, elevating your sports streaming experience. Moreover, NordVPN unblocks all industry-leading streaming platforms, including Sling TV, 9Now, Sky Sports, and fuboTV. Whichever platform you choose for watching the Ashes, NordVPN has got you covered for the best viewing sessions.

The fastest VPN in the market now can be yours with a generous deal of 74% + 3 months free. However, we advise you to rummage through NordVPN discount coupons in case you snag a better bargain. Meanwhile, cautious folks can opt for the 7-day free trial (Android only) and the 30-day cash-back guarantee to test without commitment.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – premier & budget-friendly VPN for streaming the Ashes live

Surfshark is another first-rate VPN for watching the Ashes online. Its global distribution reaches wide and far, with 3200+ servers in 100 countries. On top of that, 40+ Australian servers make accessing 9Now or 7Plus a breeze. All the while, your VPN connection remains stable and speedy thanks to the next-gen WireGuard protocol.

Watching the Ashes with Surfshark is all pleasure. The Smart DNS feature allows you to set up VPN on devices that technically don’t support it, so your streaming options remain wide. Speaking of which, the service unblocks most major streaming platforms. So, you can freely watch the games on Sling TV, 9Now, and 7Plus, and stream anything else on other platforms like Netflix or Hulu.

As one of the cost-effective VPNs, Surfshark does offer cheaper options. Currently, the best deal offers 86% discount + 2 months free. Moreover, you can check out the coupons until you find a better option. Ultimately, curious cats can freely test the service through the 7-day free trial (Android & iOS) and the trusted 30-day money-return warranty.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

Where can you watch the Ashes series online?

There is splendid news for both cord-cutters and budget-conscious Men’s Ashes enthusiasts. At least several streaming platforms broadcast the games, some of which are entirely free of charge.

Of course, the catch is that these streaming services are geo-blocked, whether premium or free. But, as we said before, it’s little challenge for a trustworthy VPN with servers in the US, the UK, or Australia. With the technology in tow, you’ll have continued access to watch the Ashes online.

How to watch the Ashes online in any country

Quite literally, distance means nothing when you have a VPN in your arsenal. You can watch the Ashes unperturbed in Mexico, South Africa, or Germany by picking a server in a desired area. You simply have to follow this guideline to start streaming right away:

1. Grab yourself a sturdy VPN with expansive global coverage. Our best pick is NordVPN, sporting quite a server network
2. Download & install the VPN software on your chosen sports-broadcasting device
3. Connect to a server where you can watch the Ashes live (e.g., Australia)
4. Log into the Ashes-supporting streaming platform or register a new account
5. Now you can relish the games to your heart’s content!

Watch the Ashes from anywhere

How to watch the Ashes online in Australia

In the land down under, the games are broadcast live and for free on 9Now and 7Plus platforms. However, though these free streaming services are the best option for those wondering how to watch the Ashes for free, they’re geo-restricted to Australia. So, you simply need a sturdy VPN to connect to the Australian server and watch the games free of charge without any hassle.

How to watch the Ashes online in the UK

You can watch the Ashes live on Sky Sports ($37.99/month) and Now TV ($20/month) in the UK. Additionally, Ashes 2024 highlights can be watched on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer from 7 pm on match days. Though if you’re outside the UK, you need a VPN with United Kingdom servers as these streaming platforms are available only there. Just connect to a UK server via VPN, and you’re all set for the Ashes games.

How to watch the Ashes online in the US

Folks in the United States can enjoy the matches on Sling TV ($35/month) if they have the World Sports package. However, Sling TV is unavailable in any other location apart from the US. Luckily, you can opt for a reliable VPN to resolve this issue in a matter of seconds. After subscribing to and installing the service, connect to a US server, tune into Sling TV, and watch the Ashes online without worries.

How to watch the Ashes online in Canada

Canadians can watch the Ashes online on Willow.tv ($9.99/month). However, should you want to watch the games for free on platforms like 9Now, you can change your location to Australia thanks to a streaming-optimized VPN. That way, you expand your options and don’t have to let any geographical restrictions bind your desire to watch the games however you wish.

How to watch the Ashes series on different devices

It’s definitely not hard to grasp the overall procedure of watching the Ashes Cricket series on different devices. However, there are certain subtleties to be mindful of while setting up the VPN to stream the games on each of the gadgets. We scribbled a few guides to help you quickly set up everything for the exciting matches.

How to watch the Ashes on PC (Windows & macOS)

PC users are in luck since all VPN providers offer the most streamlined apps brimming with various features. Here’s how to watch the Ashes on a computer:

1. Acquire a robust VPN service for PC. NordVPN is the top pick for avid PC users
2. Download & install the VPN client on your computer
3. Connect to a server where the Ashes is available (UK or AUS)
4. Log into or register an account on the streaming service of your choice
5. Watch the Ashes without skipping a single moment!

Watch the Ashes on PC

How to watch the Ashes on mobile (Android & iOS)

While VPN providers present functional apps for mobile devices, circumventing geographical restrictions is knottier business because of the in-built GPS. Regardless, top services can deal with that effectively. Here’s what to do:

1. Subscribe to a mobile-friendly VPN. We recommend NordVPN, the best for Android and iOS
2. Download the VPN app from the respective App store and install it
3. Disable your GPS and create an Apple ID or Google Play Store account with a set location to match the streaming platform (it’s an optional step)
4. Connect to a server where you can watch the Ashes (US or AUS)
5. Relish each tense moment during the games!

Watch the Ashes on mobile

How to watch the Ashes on streaming devices

Unfortunately, not all devices offer such straightforward access for configuration. In that case, you can set up your VPN on a router, automatically granting a VPN connection to all household devices. You guessed it right, it includes sports-streaming gadgets like Fire Stick, Apple TV, Kodi, Roku, and more. Simply follow the instructions:

1. Choose a VPN with support for manual router configuration. NordVPN offers a wide array of router models
2. Download your VPN provider configuration files from the official website
3. Go to your router’s settings. Type 192.168.1.1. Into the search bar on a web browser
4. Set up the VPN on your router by following your provider’s instructions
5. Connect a device to the router network and change the IP address to an Australian one (or whichever suits you)
6. Log into the streaming service of your choice or register a new account
7. Finally, delve into the Ashes games online!

Stream the Ashes live with a VPN

VPN not unblocking the Ashes: potential fixes

You followed all configuration guidelines and finally got to the point where everything should work. Still, in the moment of truth, the VPN faltered. Well, every piece of technology experiences hiccups, though it doesn't mean it's the end of the line. There are several typical causes behind VPN not working, and we present solutions to counter these.

• Switch to a different server. It's pretty possible you landed on a congested server or one already blocked by the streaming platform. Try several other servers before moving on to other fixes.
• Update your VPN software. Your VPN app must be fresh to work properly, so update or reinstall it altogether – the latter works like magic sometimes.
• Check for IP & DNS leaks. Sometimes your information, such as your actual location, may be leaking. Run tests on sites like dnsleaktest.com and ipleak.net. In case leaks are confirmed, reset your internet or flush your DNS cache.
• Clear browser cache. Wiping browser cookies might fix the issue since these retain your data, such as physical area.
• Disable GPS. PC and mobile devices have in-built GPS, which you should disable or set to a region that matches your chosen VPN server.
• Enable Stealth VPN. Use VPN stealth-oriented features such as obfuscated servers to bypass heavy restrictions.
• Try a different provider. Could be that the current VPN service just doesn't seem to work with your device. If customer support fails to help, switch to another top-tier provider and try again.

If all fails or you don't feel like hassling, then reach out to the provider's customer support. Our recommended VPNs have 24/7 live chat support, with specialists always ready to lend a hand and offer quick fixes.

How to watch the Ashes online for free?

You can watch the Ashes online for free on 9Now, 7Plus, and Spark Sport. However, seeing that these streaming platforms are available only in specific areas, namely Australia and New Zealand, you need a VPN. Now, a free service may come to mind as a recourse, but let us stop you there.

Though there are a few good free VPNs in the market, those are rare to come by. Even so, they’re suitable for browsing but not streaming. They simply cannot keep up with such demanding tasks. Unfortunately, there are other reasons to abstain from freebies:

• Placing a tight data cap, severely limiting your options, and making streaming impossible
• Tiny server fleet that makes geo-blocking circumvention ineffective
• Sabotaging user information by secretly collecting and selling it off to third parties
• Chance of malware since some free services deliberately infect VPNs with it to collect user data for selling purposes

On the flip side, you can watch the Ashes on regionally-blocked streaming services using a premium VPN with a free trial. Some services, like NordVPN, offer limited free trials and month-long cash-back warranties. That way, you can enjoy all the benefits and proper Ashes live streams entirely for free.

The Ashes series schedule

The Ashes Cricket series 2024 starts off on June 16 and ends on 31st July. Here’s a detailed look at the Ashes games’ dates and times.

You can learn more about the series on their official website.

Parting shots

The Ashes Cricket series is well within your reach no matter where you are if you have a solid VPN in tow. The service effectively removes all geographical restrictions for you to enjoy exclusive content worldwide. On top of that, it also protects you from cyber threats and prying eyes. It also secures seamless streaming sessions.

NordVPN is the all-time best choice for watching the Ashes live. It will unlock all platforms, including 9Now, so you can watch the Ashes for free. Besides, the service’s hailed as the fastest VPN in the world thanks to its NordLynx protocol, so you won’t miss a single second on the pitch.

What do you think is the best VPN for watching the Ashes? Who are you rooting for this year? Let us know by leaving a comment!

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FAQ

What’s the best VPN for the Ashes series?

The best VPN for the Ashes series is NordVPN. The service combines exceptional geo-blocking capabilities with the blazing-fast NordLynx protocol. Not only can you watch the Ashes anywhere, you can do so in UHD buffer-free. Plus, NordVPN utilizes high-end protective measures to secure your sessions.

How to watch the Ashes games online?

You can watch the Ashes on Sky Sports and Now TV (UK), Sling TV (US) or 9Now for free (AUS). However, these streaming platforms are unavailable to series enthusiasts outside these countries. Luckily, a reliable streaming-optimized VPN service, such as NordVPN, can easily unblock the Ashes.

Can I use a free VPN to unblock the Ashes?

No, a free VPN will not unblock the Ashes. Very few free services have enough servers to bypass geo-blocks, but none can keep up with such demanding tasks like streaming and they put your security to risk. Instead, opt for a premium VPN with a free trial or utilize their money-return period.

How can I watch the ashes in the USA?

You can watch the Ashes in the USA on Sling TV. However, you need to have a World Sports package subscription. Even if you're outside the country, you can watch the Ashes in the USA thanks to a reliable VPN service. NordVPN excels at bypassing geo-blocks and supporting streaming without speed drops.

How can I watch the Ashes for free?

You can watch the Ashes for free on 9Now and 7Plus. However, the catch is that these streaming platforms are geo-restricted to Australia, so it's off-limits for outsiders. Fortunately, a sports-streaming VPN can quickly solve the problem. NordVPN has a handful of Australian servers and top speeds.