The Ashes series is heating up even before the first ball is bowled, and this squad announcement is sure to spark some heated debates among cricket fans. Australia has unveiled its 15-player squad for the opening Ashes Test against England in Perth, and it’s a mix of familiar faces, surprising omissions, and exciting new talent. But here's where it gets controversial: young opener Sam Konstas has been dropped, while Marnus Labuschagne makes a triumphant return after a stellar domestic season. And this is the part most people miss: uncapped left-hander Jake Weatherald has earned his maiden international call-up, potentially forming a new opening partnership with Usman Khawaja.
Weatherald’s inclusion is no fluke—he topped the run charts in last season’s Sheffield Shield and has carried that form into the new campaign. His selection hints at a clear strategy for the top order, though it raises questions about Labuschagne’s batting position. Will he slot back into his familiar role, or will Weatherald’s arrival shake things up? Is this the right move, or are selectors overlooking Konstas’s potential too soon?
Chief selector George Bailey emphasized balance in the squad, noting that 14 of the chosen players will feature in the next round of Sheffield Shield matches. “We’re looking forward to the group connecting and preparing in Perth after a busy domestic and white-ball schedule,” Bailey said. But with Pat Cummins still recovering from a lumbar stress injury, Steve Smith will captain the side—a decision that, while expected, adds another layer of intrigue to Australia’s leadership dynamics.
Australia’s bowling attack looks formidable, with Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon expected to lead the charge. Lyon’s return after being overlooked for an all-seam attack in Jamaica is a welcome sight, but here’s a thought-provoking question: with Cameron Green and Beau Webster both in the squad, will selectors risk playing two all-rounders, or will one miss out?
The reserves also deserve attention. Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott are named as backup quicks, with Doggett returning from a hip injury and Abbott retaining his spot after consistent performances. Notably, Michael Neser—despite an impressive Shield start with 11 wickets in two matches—has been left out. Is this a fair call, or has Neser been hard done by?
Josh Inglis, included as the reserve wicketkeeper, doubles as batting cover after his standout performance in Barbados. His versatility could prove crucial, especially with Alex Carey’s concussion substitution in the last Test still fresh in memory.
Australia’s squad: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.
England’s squad: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Mark Wood.
As the first Test approaches on 21 November at Perth Stadium, the stage is set for a thrilling contest. But what do you think? Is Australia’s squad the right blend of experience and fresh talent, or have they missed a trick? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
