The upcoming first Ashes Test will feature notable debuts for Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett, marking a historic occasion for the Australian cricket team. This match, set to take place in Perth, has generated significant interest, especially given these new selections.
Debuts for Weatherald and Doggett in Ashes Test
Cameron Green’s return to bowling has strengthened Australia’s attack, allowing selectors to field four frontline bowlers. Green, who will bat at No. 6, previously batted at No. 3 and No. 4 before his injury. Captain Steven Smith emphasized the team’s versatility and Green’s performance under pressure, affirming that No. 6 suits him at this time.
Batting Order Adjustments
Marnus Labuschagne returns to his favored No. 3 position following an impressive start to the season. He has accumulated five centuries in various formats for Queensland. Smith voiced the vital role Labuschagne plays when batting at his best.
- Marnus Labuschagne at No. 3
- Cameron Green returns to No. 6
- Two new caps awarded in the same Test
This match will be significant as it marks the first instance since 2019 where Australia has introduced two new players in a single Test. It is also the first time since the 2010-11 Ashes series that this has occurred in an Ashes context.
Brendan Doggett’s Historic Inclusion
Brendan Doggett, replacing the injured Josh Hazlewood, makes his debut. This selection is historic as it features two Indigenous players in the Australian Test squad for the first time. Doggett, age 31, has performed remarkably well in domestic cricket, claiming 13 wickets at an impressive average of 14.69.
Despite being unfamiliar to some of his teammates, Smith has been impressed with Doggett’s bowling capabilities, particularly in the Perth nets. The decision on who will partner with Mitchell Starc for the new ball remains undecided.
Jake Weatherald’s First International Appearance
Weatherald becomes Usman Khawaja’s sixth opening partner since David Warner’s retirement. He has been selected due to his strong performances over the past 18 months. Smith noted Weatherald’s courage and ability to face challenging bowling, pointing out his readiness for the demands of Test cricket.
With Weatherald’s debut, England’s captain Ben Stokes acknowledged the challenge of facing an unfamiliar opponent. Stokes expressed confidence in the team’s preparation to manage Weatherald’s potential strengths and weaknesses.
Australia’s Lineup for the First Ashes Test
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Usman Khawaja | Opener |
| Jake Weatherald | Opener |
| Marnus Labuschagne | No. 3 |
| Steven Smith (captain) | No. 4 |
| Travis Head | No. 5 |
| Cameron Green | No. 6 |
| Alex Carey | Wicketkeeper |
| Mitchell Starc | Bowler |
| Nathan Lyon | Bowler |
| Scott Boland | Bowler |
| Brendan Doggett | Bowler |
As preparations continue, all eyes will be on Weatherald and Doggett as they step onto the field for their Ashes debuts, contributing to what promises to be an exciting start to the Test series.
