Australia has named their squad for the first Ashes Test against England in Perth, and there are some big surprises! Opener Jake Weatherald and seamer Brendan Doggett are set to make their debuts, as confirmed by captain Steve Smith.
Fresh Faces in the Baggy Green
It's the first time since early 2019 that Australia has included multiple debutants in a single Test match. Smith expressed his excitement, stating, "Doggett and Weatherald are going to make their debuts, which is really exciting."
Weatherald Opens, Labuschagne Returns to No. 3
Weatherald's inclusion as Usman Khawaja's opening partner allows Marnus Labuschagne to slot back into his preferred No. 3 position. Labuschagne, after a lean spell, has been in sensational form, scoring five centuries in eight innings this season.
Green at Six, Doggett to Spearhead Attack
Cameron Green secures the all-rounder spot at No. 6, with Smith and Head occupying the No. 4 and 5 positions, respectively. Doggett gets his chance due to Josh Hazlewood's hamstring injury. He'll be eager to prove his mettle after years of consistent performances in domestic cricket.
Cummins Out, Boland In
Captain Pat Cummins is also sidelined due to a back injury. Scott Boland will replace him, joining Doggett and Mitchell Starc in leading the pace attack.
Lyon's Milestone Watch
Veteran spinner Nathan Lyon will play his 140th Test. He needs just two more wickets to surpass Glenn McGrath as the sixth-highest wicket-taker in Test history. Lyon has a formidable record on home soil, taking 268 of his 562 wickets at an average of 31.08.
A Transition Period for Australia?
The Australian squad is facing scrutiny due to the age of some key players. Several players are approaching or have already passed their 30s. This raises questions about the team's long-term sustainability and the need for younger players to step up. The inclusion of Weatherald and Doggett could be the start of a necessary transition.
England will be looking to overturn their poor record in Australia, having not won an Ashes series Down Under since 2010/2011.
Australia Team: Jake Weatherald, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (capt), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett