Australia have announced their 15-member squad for the first Ashes Test against England, with uncapped opener Jake Weatherald earning his maiden Test call-up. The left-hander, known for his aggressive stroke play, could become Usman Khawaja’s sixth opening partner since David Warner’s retirement last year. Fast bowlers Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott have also been included as back-up options.

Selectors have made one notable change — young opener Sam Konstas has been dropped, making way for the return of Marnus Labuschagne, who missed the previous series. Chief selector George Bailey confirmed Weatherald’s inclusion but remained tight-lipped about his debut prospects in the Perth Test starting November 21.

If selected, Weatherald’s inclusion would see Labuschagne return to his preferred No. 3 spot, followed by all-rounder Cameron Green, who continues his gradual comeback after back surgery last year. Green, who has mostly played as a specialist batsman in recent months, could resume his bowling duties if fully fit, giving Australia a balanced lineup.

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With Pat Cummins still recovering from a back injury sustained against the West Indies three months ago, Steve Smith will lead the side once again. Cummins is expected to rejoin the playing XI for the day-night second Test in Brisbane beginning December 4.

Jake Weatherald is one of the biggest stories out of the #Ashes squad. And yet it wasn’t that long ago when he couldn’t get a regular game for his state.

Read Louis Cameron’s feature on how everything changed: https://t.co/PuU4i10uMa pic.twitter.com/U7szkguYN3

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 5, 2025

In Cummins’ absence, the pace attack will be spearheaded by Scott Boland, alongside experienced quicks Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. The ever-reliable Nathan Lyon, set to play his 140th Test, will handle spin duties. Lyon needs just two wickets to surpass Glenn McGrath and move into the top six all-time Test wicket-takers.

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After the Perth opener, the Ashes will move through Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. England, led by Ben Stokes, will be aiming to end their long winless drought in Australia, having last claimed the urn away from home in 2010–11.

Australia Ashes Squad: Steve Smith (Captain), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Jake Weatherald, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Sean Abbott, Brendan Doggett.