Australia have dropped young batter Sam Konstas and handed Tasmania opener Jake Weatherald his first international call-up for the opening Ashes Test against England. The 15-man squad, led by Steven Smith in Pat Cummins’ absence, offers flexibility with both Cameron Green and Beau Webster included as allrounders.
Marnus Labuschagne returns after a prolific start to the domestic season, though his batting position remains undecided. Selector George Bailey praised Weatherald’s “consistent and clear approach,” noting his 1391 runs at an average of 53.50 over the past 14 months.
Usman Khawaja faces a race against time to recover from a minor adductor strain, while Cummins continues rehab from a lumbar injury and is eyeing a return for the second Test in Brisbane. Nathan Lyon is set to rejoin the attack alongside Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland, as Australia prepare for another fiery Ashes battle starting November 28.
Australia squad for first Test against England
Steven Smith (C), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
