Australia announce squad for Ashes 1st Test: Steve Smith to captain, Marnus Labuschagne returns, Sam Konstas dropped

Australia Announces Squad for Ashes 1st Test

Australia has revealed a 15-member squad for the upcoming Ashes series against England. The opening match is set to take place in Perth on November 21, marking the start of a five-Test campaign that will move through Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Key Returns and Selections

Marnus Labuschagne makes a comeback to the national side after missing the recent three-Test series against the West Indies. His consistent first-class performances have earned him a recall. Jake Weatherald has also been included and is likely to open the innings. He was the top scorer in the last Sheffield Shield season and hit a century for Australia A against Sri Lanka A.

“He was not selected in the recent three-match series against West Indies, but he has performed brilliantly in first-class cricket and is now part of the team again.”

Leadership and Bowling Attack

With Pat Cummins sidelined due to injury, Steve Smith will captain Australia in the first Test. The pace attack features Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland, along with additional options in Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott.

All-Round Strength

The squad includes all-rounders Beau Webster and Cameron Green. Green is in a race against time to be fully fit before the first match.

Author’s Summary

Australia’s refreshed Ashes squad combines experienced pace strength with new batting options as Steve Smith returns to lead the team in Perth.

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Bhaskar English Bhaskar English — 2025-11-06

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