Marnus Labuschagne Back in Australia Lineup for Ashes Series
Marnus Labuschagne returns to Australia’s Test squad for the upcoming Ashes series, strengthening the team’s middle order. Jake Weatherald has earned his first Test call-up for the opening match in Perth following a standout domestic season.
Squad Selection Details
The national selectors have named a 15-member group that includes two uncapped players — Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett. Weatherald’s inclusion comes after an outstanding Sheffield Shield season, where he scored 906 runs in 18 innings for Tasmania, averaging 50.33.
Possible Opening Partnership
With Sam Konstas left out, Weatherald is expected to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja. His recent form makes him a leading candidate for that position.
Australia’s First Test Squad
- 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
Changes and Exclusions
The 20-year-old Sam Konstas has been dropped after a poor performance during the West Indies tour, where he scored only 50 runs in six innings, including two ducks. Matthew Renshaw and Mitchell Marsh are also excluded from the opening Test lineup.
“Steve Smith will captain the side in Perth, with regular skipper Pat Cummins ruled out due to a lingering back stress injury sustained in the Caribbean in July.”
Author’s Summary
Labuschagne’s comeback adds stability to Australia’s middle order as new talents like Weatherald and Doggett aim to prove themselves in the Ashes opener at Perth.