Australia unveil final playing XI for Ashes 2025 opening Test against England

Australia have named their starting XI for the first Test of the Ashes 2025/26, featuring two debutants and a rejigged attack after key injuries ahead of the clash with England.

Australia (Image Credit: @cricketcomau}

The Ashes 2025-26 is all set to start on November 22 in Perth. The two most dangerous, fierce, and competitive teams will be up against each other, giving the viewers a chance to enjoy the 5-day-long Test cricket. In the era where T20 cricket is rising and spreading like wildfire, Ashes keeps the charm of red-ball cricket alive.

The long sessions, stunning knocks, stellar bowling spells, and most importantly, the sledging and subtle arguments between overs, fans get to see it all. For the upcoming match, Australia have announced their playing XI, including two debutants in the team. Steve Smith will lead the team for the opening game.

“The nets have been pretty lively, fast, bouncy, and with plenty of movement,” Smith said in the pre-match press conference. “He’s shown real bravery and a willingness to take everything on. He’s earned this shot He’s toured with us before and kept improving. It’s a big moment for him, and I’m keen to see what he brings.”

Australia XI: Jake Weatherald, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (capt), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett.

England have announced the 12-member squad for the first Test against Australia. Mark Wood returns for the game, which is a huge relief for the visitors. Their bowling lineup looks much better this time with Jofra Archer, Wood, and Gus Atkinson. Moreover, Captain Ben Stokes is also present to give extra support to the bowlers.

England squad for Perth Test: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Mark Wood

Where to watch the Australia vs England 1st Test match?

Cricket fans in India can watch the Australia vs England 1st Test match online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Also read: India’s WTC campaign suffers blow after embarrasing defeat vs SA; slips from third position

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