The Ashes, one of the longest-running rivalries in cricket, will kick start on December 8 with Australia under the new stewardship of Pat Cummins locking horns with old foes England. Even with three days left for the series opener at the Gabba, the Aussies have already announced their playing XI.
Captain Pat Cummins has announced that Travis Head pipped Usman Khawja for a place in the playing XI. The no.5 position was the most debated in the team with both Head and Khawaja vying for the same spot in the squad. Surprisingly, Australia’s hero in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup, Matthew Wade, was not picked in the squad even as former captain Tim Paine decided to take a break from the sport after the ‘sexting’ controversy.
Alex Carey will don the gloves for the Baggy Greens while Marcus Harris returns as opener. Mitchell Starc will also be under the radar as the bowler has faced a lot of criticism in recent times due to his performances, with Australian legend Shane Warne pushing for Jhye Richardson's inclusion in his place. For now, the team management has decided to keep their faith in the left-arm quick.
David Warner and Steve Smith who both were part of the T20 World Cup-winning squad are also in the playing 11. If there are no late injuries. this is the team Australia are going to play in the first Test.
Australia’s expected playing XI:
Marcus Harris, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
