Marnus Labuschagne Returns for the Ashes

Marnus Labuschagne has reclaimed his spot in Australia’s Test side for the upcoming Ashes series, strengthening the middle order ahead of the opening match in Perth.

Selection Highlights

Jake Weatherald joins Australia’s 15-member squad after an outstanding Sheffield Shield season. He topped the run charts with 906 runs from 18 innings for Tasmania, averaging 50.33. His form has pushed him forward as a leading candidate to open alongside Usman Khawaja.

The selectors have also brought in two uncapped players, Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett, adding depth and new energy to the squad.

Omissions and Changes

Sam Konstas, 20, was left out after a poor West Indies tour where he managed only 50 runs in six innings, including two ducks. Matthew Renshaw and Mitchell Marsh were also excluded from consideration for the Perth Test.

Leadership and Squad Composition

“Steve Smith will captain the side in Perth, with regular skipper Pat Cummins ruled out due to a lingering back injury sustained in the Caribbean in July.”

Australia’s First Test 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

Author’s Summary

Labuschagne’s return and Weatherald’s debut signal Australia’s balanced approach combining experience with rising talent for the Ashes opener in Perth.