Marnus Labuschagne Returns to Australia’s Ashes Test Lineup
Marnus Labuschagne has been recalled to Australia’s Test squad for the upcoming Ashes series, signaling a significant boost to the team's batting strength. Jake Weatherald earns his first Test selection after an exceptional Sheffield Shield season.
Squad Selections and New Inclusions
- Jake Weatherald, 31, secured his maiden Test call-up thanks to his stellar performance with Tasmania, scoring 906 runs in 18 innings at an average of 50.33.
- Two uncapped players, Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett, have also been named.
- Sam Konstas, 20, dropped from the squad after a disappointing West Indies tour, scoring just 50 runs in six innings with two ducks.
- Matthew Renshaw and Mitchell Marsh were omitted from the opening Test squad.
Australia’s First Test Squad for Ashes in Perth
- 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
Captaincy and Injury Updates
Steve Smith will lead the squad in Perth as captain. Regular skipper Pat Cummins is sidelined due to an ongoing back stress injury sustained during the Caribbean tour in July.
“Steve Smith will captain the side in Perth, with regular skipper Pat Cummins ruled out due to a lingering back stress injury.”
Author’s summary: Marnus Labuschagne returns to bolster Australia’s Ashes squad alongside newcomer Jake Weatherald, with Steve Smith leading in Cummins’ absence due to injury.