Australia's Cricket Team Announced for the Ashes Test in Perth
The Australian cricket team has unveiled its 15-strong squad for the first Ashes Test against England in Perth, with the opening eleven still a closely guarded secret. Captain Steve Smith, who will lead the side in place of the injured Pat Cummins, has Travis Head as his deputy.
George Bailey, the chairman of selectors, expressed confidence in the squad's balance, noting that 14 players will be competing in the upcoming Sheffield Shield competition. This allows the team to gather valuable information before the Test begins on November 21st.
Three players will make their Test debut: batsman Jake Weatherald, bowlers Brendan Doggett, and Sean Abbott. Weatherald is in the running to open the batting alongside Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja.
All-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster will join the team, along with wicketkeeper Alex Carey and his reserve, Josh Inglis. The fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood, the spin bowler Nathan Lyon, and seamers Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland complete the squad.
Bailey hinted at the possibility of Cummins returning later in the series, despite his back injury ruling him out of the initial selection. He praised Jake Weatherald's consistent performance over the past 18 months, describing his style as complementary to the squad's other players.
When asked about the opening eleven, Bailey remained tight-lipped, stating that the team will be announced closer to the start date. Sam Konstas, who opened for Australia in three Test matches in the West Indies, was not selected due to poor form this season.
The Ashes Test series will commence with the first match at Optus Stadium in Perth from November 21 to 25, followed by the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane from December 4 to 8. The third Test will be held at Adelaide Oval from December 17 to 21, followed by the traditional Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30.
The series will conclude at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 4 to 8, spanning a total of seven weeks.
