Australia captain Steve Smith named his side for the opening Ashes Test in Perth, but what should have been a routine announcement quickly turned heated. Smith publicly hit out at comments made by former England spinner Monty Panesar, who had urged England to unsettle the Australian captain by bringing up the 2018 sandpaper scandal during the series.
Panesar had suggested that England players question Smith’s integrity to get into his head. When asked about the remarks, Smith responded sharply, referencing Panesar’s infamous appearance on the quiz show Mastermind, where the former bowler struggled with several basic questions. Smith joked about Panesar claiming Athens was in Germany and Oliver Twist being “a season,” dismissing his criticisms as unserious.
Despite insisting he was “unbothered,” the passionate delivery of Smith’s response contradicted that claim. Moments later, he described himself as “chilled” and “more relaxed these days,” even though the lively exchange suggested otherwise.
Smith emphasised his preference for tuning out pre-series noise, noting that verbal sparring is typical before any Ashes campaign. He stressed that Australia’s focus remains firmly on their processes and execution.
The Australia captain then confirmed the XI for Friday’s first Test. Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett will both make their Test debuts, stepping in due to the continued absence of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Cummins has performed strongly in the nets, but the team opted for caution, while Hazlewood remains uncertain even for the second Test.
Marnus Labuschagne returns to his favoured No 3 slot following dominant domestic performances, pushing Beau Webster out of the side. Smith praised Labuschagne’s form for Queensland, saying the decision to recall him was straightforward.
Cameron Green shifts back to No 6, restoring the balance Australia have relied on in recent years. Mitchell Starc leads the attack, likely sharing the new ball with Scott Boland or debutant Doggett. Smith hinted strongly that he intends to bat first if he wins the toss, consistent with his long-standing preference.
On the England side, Ben Stokes acknowledged the nation’s poor historical record in Australia but insisted his squad is determined to “write their own history” over the next two and a half months. England are expected to confirm their XI after final training.
Australia XI: Weatherald, Khawaja, Labuschagne, Smith (c), Head, Green, Carey (wk), Starc, Lyon, Boland, Doggett.
