Major shake-ups are underway as Australia gears up for the first Ashes Test against England! Sam Konstas has been surprisingly dropped, paving the way for Jake Weatherald's potential Test debut. This decision by the national selectors has resulted in a 15-man squad, creating a buzz of anticipation.
Marnus Labuschagne, who faced a setback earlier this year in the West Indies, is poised for a comeback to the starting XI, thanks to a stellar start to the season with Queensland. But here's where it gets interesting: The batting order is still up in the air. The inclusion of Weatherald, a specialist opener, instead of a more versatile batter, raises questions about Labuschagne's role.
Allrounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster are also in the mix. The big question is: will they both play in the same XI, as they have in Australia's last four Test matches?
In the absence of Pat Cummins, who's battling a lumbar stress injury, Steven Smith will captain the side. Cummins will be traveling with the team to Perth, aiming to regain fitness for the second Test in Brisbane.
The bowling attack is likely to be spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon. Lyon returns after being sidelined in Australia's last Test in Jamaica, where the selectors opted for an all-pace attack. Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott have been selected as reserve fast bowlers. Doggett makes a return after recovering from a hip injury. Abbott remains in the squad, having served as a reserve fast bowler on previous tours.
Controversially, Michael Neser, despite an impressive start to the season with Queensland, including 11 wickets in his first two Shield matches, has been overlooked. Josh Inglis is included as the reserve wicketkeeper, capable of filling a reserve batting role, as he did in Barbados.
Australia Squad for the First Test:
- Steven Smith (capt)
- Sean Abbott
- Scott Boland
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Brendan Doggett
- Cameron Green
- Josh Hazlewood
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis (wk)
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Nathan Lyon
- Mitchell Starc
- Jake Weatherald
- Beau Webster
What do you think of these selections? Do you agree with the choices made, or do you believe someone else deserved a spot? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
