Australia Names Playing XI for First Ashes Test

Smith Leads Side as Weatherald and Doggett Make Debuts

Cricket Australia announced its playing XI for the first Ashes Test in Perth, with Steve Smith leading the side in the absence of injured skipper Pat Cummins and pacer Josh Hazlewood.

Jake Weatherald received his maiden cap and will open the innings alongside Usman Khawaja. Brendan Doggett also earned his debut, joining Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland to complete Australia’s pace attack. Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, and Nathan Lyon round out the lineup.

Smith’s captaincy marks a crucial moment for Australia as they begin the Ashes campaign with a mix of experience and fresh talent. Weatherald’s inclusion strengthens the top order, while Doggett’s pace adds depth to the bowling unit.

England earlier named a 12-man squad featuring Shoaib Bashir as the lone spinner. Their pace attack includes Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, Gus Atkinson, and Mark Wood. The clash in Perth promises a fierce contest between two balanced sides.

Australia’s XI reflects a strategic blend of seasoned performers and debutants. The team aims to maintain dominance at home while adapting to injuries in the squad. Fans anticipate strong performances from Smith, Khawaja, and Starc, alongside the debutants who carry the responsibility of proving themselves on the big stage.

Australia Playing XI

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