NEW DELHI: As the Australian summer gathers momentum, excitement is rising for one of cricket’s most iconic contests as the Ashes return. The five Test series between Australia and England will begin on November 21 in Perth, with Steve Smith set to lead the home side in the absence of Pat Cummins who is recovering from a back injury.

Weatherald and Labuschagne are included

Tasmania opener Jake Weatherald has been rewarded with a maiden Test call up after an impressive domestic season where he piled up runs in the Sheffield Shield. Marnus Labuschagne also returns to the national squad following a commanding start to the summer. Both players are in contention to open the batting with senior partner Usman Khawaja in the first Test.

The 15 player squad includes regulars such as Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Travis Head and Josh Hazlewood. All rounder Cameron Green could have an important role depending on his bowling fitness. George Bailey, the chairman of selectors, said that the final playing eleven will depend on performances in the upcoming Shield round. He added that the squad gives the team a healthy balance and options ahead of the Perth Test.

Selection Calls and Team Possibilities

Khawaja’s previous opening partner Sam Konstas has been left out after a disappointing run in the Caribbean earlier this year. Matthew Renshaw and Mitch Marsh also missed selection despite being in consideration.

Selectors have announced only the squad for the first Test, with uncapped fast bowlers Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott included as back up options. Josh Inglis remains in the group as the reserve wicketkeeper and could be used as a specialist batsman if required.

Steve Smith will captain a strong but slightly reshuffled Australian side aiming to begin the Ashes campaign in style at Perth Stadium.

Australia’s squad for the first Test: Steve Smith (captain), 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.