Did Marnus Labuschagne's Recall Signal the End for Sam Konstas in the Ashes Squad?
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Synopsis
Australia's Ashes squad has been revealed, and with Marnus Labuschagne's impressive recall overshadowing Sam Konstas' exit, the team gears up for action. As the first Test approaches, fans are eager to see how this lineup performs in the heat of competition against England.
Key Takeaways
- Marnus Labuschagne returns to the squad, signaling a focus on experience.
- Young opener Sam Konstas has been dropped after poor performance.
- Uncapped Jake Weatherald is a contender for a Test debut.
- Steve Smith leads the team in absence of Cummins.
- Australia targets a strong start against England in the Ashes.
Melbourne, Nov 5 (NationPress) Marnus Labuschagne has made a notable return while young opener Sam Konstas has been omitted as Australia unveiled its squad for the first Ashes Test, set to commence on November 21 in Perth.
Uncapped left-handed batsman Jake Weatherald is in the mix for his Test debut after being included in the 15-player squad.
Former captain Steve Smith will helm the team in the absence of Cummins, with fellow batsman Travis Head and all-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster expected to be integral to the top order.
Labuschagne's inclusion follows his impressive performance at the start of the Sheffield Shield season, while Usman Khawaja's recent opening partner, Konstas, has been dropped after scoring 3, 5, 25, 0, 17, and 0 in Australia’s last Test campaign in the Caribbean earlier this year.
Both Labuschagne and Weatherald are now contenders to face the new ball against England alongside Khawaja.
Weatherald was the leading run-scorer in last season's domestic Sheffield Shield competition, and at 31 years of age, he has maintained his form in the ongoing season.
Pacers Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, and Sean Abbott also earned spots in the 15-player group and are in contention to play in the absence of the injured skipper Cummins.
“The squad offers us solid balance, and with 14 of those selected participating in the next round of Sheffield Shield, we will keep gathering information as we approach the first Test,” stated Chief Selector George Bailey.
Australia is hopeful that Cummins, who will join the group in Perth regardless, will return later in the series.
Josh Inglis is also included in the squad as an additional batting option and backup to regular wicketkeeper Alex Carey.
Bailey announced today that Inglis would compete in Western Australia’s Shield match against Queensland at the WACA Ground starting Tuesday after the T20I series against India concludes on Saturday.
Australia squad: (First Test only): Steve Smith (c), 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, Beau Webster
Point of View
I firmly believe that Australia’s latest squad announcement showcases a strategic balance, reflecting both experience and fresh talent. The choice to reinstate Labuschagne and the decision to exclude Konstas indicate a clear focus on performance and results, which is paramount for success in the highly competitive Ashes series.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sam Konstas dropped from the squad?
Sam Konstas was left out due to a series of underwhelming performances, scoring just 3, 5, 25, 0, 17, and 0 in his last Test campaign.
Who is Marnus Labuschagne?
Marnus Labuschagne is a talented Australian cricketer who has been recalled to the Test squad following impressive performances in the Sheffield Shield.
When does the first Ashes Test start?
The first Ashes Test is set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Who is the captain of the Australian team?
Steve Smith will lead the Australian team in the first Ashes Test as Pat Cummins is currently sidelined due to injury.
What are the chances of Jake Weatherald making his debut?
Jake Weatherald has a strong chance of making his Test debut, having been in excellent form in domestic cricket.
