Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett Set to Debut in First Ashes Test

Australia will field two debutants in the upcoming Ashes Test, with top-order batter Jake Weatherald and right-arm pacer Brendan Doggett set to make their first appearances in the opening match against England at Perth Stadium on November 21. This marks the first time in almost six years that Australia has handed out two Test debuts in the same match.

Exciting Debuts as Australia Shuffles Top Order

The selections were confirmed by stand-in captain Steve Smith, who said he was excited about the new additions. As the team leader, when Pat Cummins is injured, Smith is of the opinion that the two players would make a difference in the highly competitive series.

The last time Australia had two debutants in one Ashes Test was at the start of 2019 at the Gabba, with Kurtis Patterson and Jhye Richardson making their debuts.

The presence of Jake Weatherald at the top of the order reshuffles the lineup, particularly following the retirement of David Warner. Australia has pursued stability in the long term; the 31-year-old will be the sixth opening partner of Usman Khawaja in less than two years.

This change also allows Marnus Labuschagne to return to his preferred No. 3 position. This move is supported by the fact that Labuschagne has been very successful in the domestic season, scoring five centuries in eight innings in Queensland after being dropped earlier.

Cameron Green also retains his all-rounder status, edging out Beau Webster, and will take a position in the number 6 spot. He gives a good backing to the heart of the middle order of Smith and Travis' heads.

Smith commended the temperament of Weatherald, saying that he had seen him at work in hard training conditions. “The nets were quick, bouncy, a lot of seam,” Smith said. “He just kept wanting more. He’s got courage, he’s worked hard, and I think he’ll complement Uzzie really well.”

Doggett steps into the squad following an injury to Josh Hazlewood, who was ruled out with a hamstring issue. With Cummins also unavailable as he works his way back to full fitness, Australia will rely on Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Doggett to lead the pace attack. 

Smith believes Doggett, who has been on the periphery of the squad for several years, has earned his chance. “Injuries happen, particularly with quicks,” Smith said. “But it opens doors. Brendan has improved massively over the last few years; he’s skilful, and I’m excited to see him go about his business.”

England, who drew the 2023 Ashes series 2-2 at home, will seek to end their losing streak in Australia, where they last won an Ashes series in 2010-11. 

Australia’s XI for the first Test: 

Jake Weatherald, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (capt), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett.