Australia Unveils Squad for Ashes 2025-26: Key Changes and Surprises

Australia has revealed its squad for the upcoming Ashes 2025-26 series against England, starting November 21. With notable omissions and surprising inclusions, including Marnus Labuschagne's return and Jake Weatherald's selection, the team is set for a thrilling contest. Former captain Steve Smith will lead the side in the absence of injured skipper Pat Cummins. The squad aims to balance experience and form as they prepare for the first Test in Perth. Read on to find out more about the players and the series schedule.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2025, 08:22 IST

Australia's Ashes Squad Announcement

Canberra [Australia], November 5: In a significant update, Australia has announced its team for the first Test of the Ashes 2025-26 series against England, set to commence on November 21. Notably, opener Sam Konstas has been left out, while Marnus Labuschagne makes a return to the squad. Jake Weatherald has also been included, marking a surprising choice by the selectors.

Chief selector George Bailey revealed the squad on Wednesday, highlighting Weatherald's selection as a standout decision. The 15-player group also features pacers Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, and Sean Abbott, who are in contention to play in the absence of the injured captain, Pat Cummins.

Bailey expressed enthusiasm about the squad's preparation in Perth, stating, “We are eager for the team to connect and gear up for the Test summer following a busy domestic and white-ball schedule. The squad is well-balanced, and with 14 players participating in the upcoming Sheffield Shield round, we will gather more insights as we approach the first Test,” as reported by ICC.

Weatherald is expected to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja for the first Test against England in Perth, following the omission of 20-year-old Sam Konstas, who struggled with low scores in recent domestic matches after five Test appearances.

Weatherald excelled as the top run-scorer in last season's Sheffield Shield and has maintained his impressive form in the current season, according to ICC.

Marnus Labuschagne, an experienced top-order batsman, could also step in to fill the opening spot after earning a recall due to his strong domestic performances. Additionally, Josh Inglis has been included in the squad as a batting option and backup for regular wicketkeeper Alex Carey.

With Cummins sidelined, former captain Steve Smith will lead the team, while Travis Head, all-rounders Cameron Green, and Beau Webster are expected to be part of the top six, as per ICC.

Australia's First Test squad includes: 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.

England's squad features: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Mark Wood.

Series schedule:

First Test: Perth Stadium, November 21-25.

Second Test: Gabba, December 4-8.

Third Test: Adelaide Oval, December 17-21.

Fourth Test: MCG, December 26-30.

Fifth Test: SCG, January 4-8.