Australia name Ashes Squad, Smith to Lead in Cummins’ Absence

Australia’s first Ashes squad has finally landed, and it comes with a few surprises. Tasmania opener Jake Weatherald has been handed a maiden international call-up. 

Steve Smith will captain Australia while Pat Cummins continues his recovery from a back injury. It’s only a short-term switch, but Smith’s return as skipper adds fresh energy. 

Selectors have also recalled Marnus Labuschagne, who returns after missing the West Indies series earlier this year. His recent form for Queensland has been irresistible. He’s scored heavily, and his confidence looks restored. But where he bats is still up for debate.

Chair of selectors George Bailey confirmed that the final XI and batting order would be decided closer to the match. “He can bat three, he could open,” Bailey said. “He’s got the skill set for both.”

The other big headline is Weatherald’s rise. For over a year, the left-hander has piled up runs for Tasmania and Australia A. His 1,391 runs at 53.50 tell part of the story. What those numbers don’t show is his hunger. “He’s been consistent, he’s clear about his game, and he scores quickly without being reckless,” Bailey said. "I think it's a pretty solid record for sort of 18-24 months," he also mentioned.

There’s genuine excitement about Weatherald’s aggressive edge. He’s not a slogger, but he’s not shy either. 

Sam Konstas, meanwhile, misses out. Bailey said the youngster took the call well. “Every conversation with Sam is a joy,” he said. “He remains upbeat and focused. It’s always about runs, in the end.”

All-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster both make the cut, but it’s still unclear whether both will play. Green will test his bowling fitness in Western Australia’s next Shield game. The selectors want him to deliver 15–20 overs to prove his readiness.

George Bailey said the team will wait before confirming the final XI, as most players are currently involved in Sheffield Shield matches. 

Usman Khawaja will miss the next Shield game with a minor adductor strain but should be fit for the Perth Test. Meanwhile, Australia’s bowling unit remains unchanged with Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon all included. Lyon returns after sitting out the Jamaica Test earlier this year.

Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott serve as pace backups, while Michael Neser, despite a strong start to the season, misses out. “He’s still in the frame,” Bailey clarified. “It’s about complementary skill sets.”

Josh Inglis remains in the squad as the backup wicketkeeper and an extra batting option. Once the T20I series against India ends, he’ll rejoin Western Australia for the next Shield round.

The mood around the squad feels balanced and steady, but with a hint of freshness. Weatherald’s inclusion brings new energy. Labuschagne’s recall adds reliability. Smith’s leadership, as always, steadies the room.

Few would argue Australia looks short on talent. The bigger question is whether they can find the right mix in time for the first ball at Perth. That’s what will decide whether this Ashes starts with a bang or a stumble.

Australia Squad for the 1st Ashes Test Match

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.