Opener Jake Weatherald has been named in Australia’s 15-man Ashes squad and is a strong candidate to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order for the first Test in Perth. However, a final decision on his spot in the XI will depend on performances in the upcoming Sheffield Shield matches.
Chief selector George Bailey praised Weatherald’s consistency, noting that the Tasmania batter has been impressive over the last two years. With an average close to 38 in first-class cricket, Weatherald has been in good form, having scored three half-centuries in as many Shield games this season. Despite this, Bailey said that the selectors would wait until after the next round of Shield matches before making any final decisions.
Marnus Labuschagne has also been included in the squad, having been recalled after being left out of Australia’s tour to the West Indies earlier this year. Bailey confirmed that Labuschagne has made adjustments to his batting method, and the Queensland batter has been in excellent form, scoring five centuries this season.
The opening pair, as well as the overall batting order, could be influenced by the fitness of all-rounder Cameron Green. The 26-year-old has struggled with side soreness but is expected to play in the Shield, with Bailey looking to see 15 to 20 overs from Green before confirming his role in the squad. While Green can bat in multiple positions, he may be selected purely as a batter if his bowling fitness does not meet expectations.
Beau Webster, who has been performing admirably in Green’s absence, is another potential option for the all-rounder role. Webster has averaged nearly 35 with the bat and 23 with the ball since his debut in the New Year’s Test.
The selection of Weatherald has meant that other opening candidates, like Sam Konstas and Matt Renshaw, have missed out on a place in the squad. Bailey expressed understanding for Konstas, who impressed on debut last year but has now dropped down the pecking order.
Steve Smith will lead the team in Pat Cummins’s absence, though the paceman will continue his rehabilitation in Perth. The first Ashes Test begins on 21 November at Optus Stadium.
Australia Squad: 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, and Beau Webster.
