Marnus Labuschagne has stormed his way back into the Australian Test squad for the upcoming Ashes series, following an extraordinary run of form in domestic cricket. The right-handed batter struck five centuries in his last seven matches, compelling selectors to recall him for the first Test.
The 2025 Ashes series is set to begin in Perth on 21 November, with Cricket Australia (CA) naming a 15-man squad for the opener. While there was no place for Sam Constas, the selectors handed a maiden Test call-up to Jake Weatherald after his impressive form in the Sheffield Shield.
Labuschagne, who was dropped earlier this year after a poor outing on the West Indies tour, responded in the best possible fashion. Returning to domestic cricket, he amassed runs at will across formats — scoring five centuries in his last eight innings across first-class and List A cricket — re-establishing himself as one of Australia’s most reliable top-order batsmen.
Australia have opted to retain Cameron Green and Beau Webster as pace-bowling all-rounders, both of whom featured in the playing XI during the last four Tests. It remains to be seen whether both will continue together in the Ashes, given the balance of the side.
With regular captain Pat Cummins sidelined by injury, Steven Smith will lead the team in the first Test. The pace attack remains formidable, featuring Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland, along with Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett providing additional depth.
Head coach Andrew McDonald praised Labuschagne’s persistence and work ethic, saying:
“Marnus has shown tremendous determination to return to form. His hunger for runs and consistency at the domestic level made his selection an easy decision.”
Australia’s Squad for the First Ashes Test
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Steven Smith (Captain) | Batter |
| Sean Abbott | Fast Bowler |
| Scott Boland | Fast Bowler |
| Alex Carey | Wicketkeeper |
| Brendan Doggett | Fast Bowler |
| Cameron Green | All-rounder |
| Josh Hazlewood | Fast Bowler |
| Travis Head | Batter |
| Josh Inglis | Wicketkeeper |
| Usman Khawaja | Batter |
| Marnus Labuschagne | Batter |
| Nathan Lyon | Spinner |
| Mitchell Starc | Fast Bowler |
| Jake Weatherald | Batter |
| Beau Webster | All-rounder |
Australia’s preparations for the Ashes are well underway, and with Labuschagne’s return, the side looks to reinforce its batting depth as they aim to reclaim the urn on home soil.
