Ashes: Australia announce 1st Test squad; Marnus Labuschagne returns
What's the story
Top-order batter Marnus Labuschagne has been recalled to the Australian Test squad for The Ashes opener against England in Perth, starting November 21. Labuschagne, who was dropped from the side, makes a comeback after proving himself in the domestic season with Queensland. Jake Weatherald, the uncapped batter, has also found a spot after his impressive performance as last season's Sheffield Shield leading run-scorer.
Opening duo
Weatherald's potential opening role
Weatherald's inclusion in the squad suggests a possible opening partnership with Usman Khawaja for the 1st Test. Labuschagne, who was dropped for the West Indies tour earlier this year, is likely to reclaim his spot in the XI after a strong start to the season. However, his exact batting position could be influenced by whether Weatherald takes up a specialist opener role. Sam Konstas, who made an impressive debut against India, has been dropped following a poor WI tour.
Numbers
Notable numbers for Weatherald and Labuschagne
According to ESPNcricinfo, Weatherald was roped in after he scored 1,391 runs at an incredible average of 53.50 while opening for Tasmania and Australia A in the last 14 months. The left-handed batter has over 5,000 runs in First-Class cricket. Meanwhile, Labuschagne has slammed five tons in his last seven domestic games for Queensland (First-Class and List A cricket). He currently has 4,435 runs from 58 Tests at 46.19 for Australia.
Captaincy update
Smith to lead in Cummins's absence
As reported earlier, Steve Smith will captain the Australian side in Pat Cummins's absence. The latter continues to recover from a lumbar stress injury but will travel with the squad to Perth to manage his workload. He hopes to return for the Brisbane Test. While Cummins is out, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon will be the frontline bowlers.
Information
Australia's 1st Test squad
Australia's 1st Test 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.