Australia name 17-man squad for the Ashes

Australia have named a strong 17-man squad for the upcoming Ashes in England. The return of disgraced trio – Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft will dominate all the headlines. Uncapped seaming all-rounder Michael Neser is also a surprise selection. James Pattinson has also made a comeback in the squad after overcoming his injury issues. Matthew Wade has pipped Alex Carey for the spot of the reserve wicketkeeper-batsman.

Will the batsmen fire in the Ashes?

Bancroft will compete with Marcus Harris to open the batting alongside David Warner. Usman Khawaja who is undergoing rehabilitation for an injury sustained during the World Cup is also included in the squad and likely to bat at No.3. Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head have also been named in the squad and are likely to feature in the middle-order. Mitchell Marsh will be Australia’s designated the all-rounder during the series with skipper Tim Paine donning the gloves.

A strong pace battery

Australia have opted to go with a strong pace battery in conditions which are likely to assist the seamers. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins will lead the pace attack, with Nathan Lyon providing support as the spinner. Tweaker Jon Holland has been named Lyon’s backup. Veteran pacer Peter Siddle has also made the cut.

Speaking on the squad, national selector Trevor Hohns said, as quoted by cricket.com.au:

“It has been a difficult task to reduce the 25-player squad here in Southampton down to 17 and those who have not made the final Ashes party are all desperately unlucky. However, that problem also highlights that we have a degree of depth to select from and that is a terrific positive. We have had excellent preparations for this series, with eight players from this squad forming part of the Australia A tour that has been in the UK for more than a month, six who took part in the ICC Cricket World Cup, and three who have been playing county cricket. It means the players are acclimatised and ready for the first Test.”

Squad: Tim Paine (c), Cameron Bancroft, Pat Cummins, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Peter Siddle, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner.