Ashes 2025-26: Australia name squad for first Test in Perth, Sam Konstas left out

The National Selection Panel (NSP) of Australia announced a 15-player squad for the opening match of the five-Test Ashes Series against England in Perth on Wednesday, November 5. The age-old rivals are set to lock horns at the Optus Stadium, starting on November 21.

Chair of Selector’s George Bailey said that the squad that has been picked offers great balance, with 14 of them being available for the upcoming round of Sheffield Shield matches.

“We are looking forward to the squad connecting and preparing in Perth leading on from a busy domestic and white ball schedule to kick off the Test summer," Bailey said.

“The squad gives us good balance and, with 14 of those chosen playing the next round of Sheffield Shield, we will continue to gather information as we move closer to the start of the first Test," the former Australian captain added.

Australia are currently playing a five-match T20I series against India. They have released Travis Head and Sean Abbott ahead of the fourth T20I to allow them to play for their respective teams in the Sheffield Shield.

The Aussies will miss the services of regular captain Pat Cummins, who is recovering from a lumbar bone stress injury in his lower back, sustained in July 2025. However, he is reportedly in line to get fit for the latter half of the series.

Steve Smith will take on the leadership role in Cummins' absence. Meanwhile, uncapped left-handed Jake Weatherald has been given a chance in the 15-man squad. His inclusion is the biggest surprise in the side picked by Bailey and Co. Meanwhile, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, and Sean Abbott will be the three pacers in contention to fill in for Cummins. Boland, however, will be the frontrunner due to his experience.

Another interesting development was Sam Konstas' snub from the side. Bailey, however, said that the opening batter had taken the news of his omission sportingly.

Australia's squad for first Ashes Test: 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.