Australia have confirmed their Playing XI for the opening Test of the Ashes 2025-26 series, starting 21 November in Perth. With regular skipper Pat Cummins and senior pacer Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to injuries, the leadership responsibility has been handed to Steve Smith, who will captain the side for the first Test.
The biggest highlight of the announcement is the inclusion of two debutants – fast bowler Brendan Doggett and opening batter Jake Weatherald – both earning their first-ever Test caps. Australia last handed two Test debuts in the same Ashes match way back in the 2010-11 Sydney Test, making this a rare and historic moment.
Two New Faces Ready for the Biggest Test Stage
Brendan Doggett, a 31-year-old fast bowler, has received his maiden opportunity due to the unavailability of Cummins and Hazlewood. Doggett has been impressive in domestic cricket in recent years, and the team management believes he is ready to take the next step.
Jake Weatherald, meanwhile, will open the innings alongside senior batter Usman Khawaja. Weatherald becomes Khawaja seventh opening partner since 2022. The team sees him as a positive, attacking option at the top, capable of giving Australia fast starts in home conditions.
Smith Confident About Team Balance
During the pre-match press conference, Steve Smith expressed confidence in the team combination. He highlighted the return of Marnus Labuschagne to his preferred No. 3 position and praised the progress Doggett has shown over the years.
Smith said:
“When Marnus performs at No. 3, he strengthens our entire batting order. And Doggett has improved a lot recently. This is a great opportunity for him.”
Australia’s bowling attack will feature Mitchell Starck, Scott Boland, and debutant Doggett, while senior off-spinner Nathan Lyon will lead the spin department.
Australia’s Playing XI for the 1st Ashes Test
HERE WE GO 🤩
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 20, 2025
The Australian XI for the first Ashes Test in Perth 👇 pic.twitter.com/6lXwDZ7hBe
- Usman Khawaja
- Jake Weatherald
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith (Captain)
- Travis Head
- Cameron Green
- Alex Carey (Wicketkeeper)
- Mitchell Starck
- Nathan Lyon
- Brendan Doggett
- Scott Boland
Also see: England Announce 12-Man Squad for Ashes 2025
Ashes 2025–26 Test Series Schedule
| Test | Date | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | 21 November | Perth | 8:00 AM |
| 2nd Test | 4 December | Brisbane | 9:30 AM |
| 3rd Test | 17 December | Adelaide | 5:30 AM |
| 4th Test | 26 December | Melbourne | 5:30 AM |
| 5th Test | 4 January | Sydney | 5:30 AM |
Australia vs England – Ashes Head-to-Head Test Record
| Result | Total |
|---|---|
| Australia Won | 152 |
| England Won | 112 |
| Drawn | 97 |
| Total Tests Played | 361 |
Australia hold a significant advantage historically, and with home conditions on their side, they will once again start the series as favourites.
The Ashes 2025-26 series is set to begin with high expectations and exciting new talent. Australia’s decision to hand debuts to Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett shows their confidence in the next generation, while Steve Smith’s experience adds stability. With both teams unveiling strong squads, fans can expect a thrilling start to the iconic rivalry in Perth.
