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Australia selector defends experienced Ashes squad as injured Cummins misses out

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Clock IconNov 5, 2025Cricket

Australia have named a highly experienced squad to take on England in the first Ashes Test, with only one player under the age of 30 selected.

But chief selector George Bailey has defended the decision to go with experience over youth for the clash in Perth, which begins on November 21.

Captain Pat Cummins, as expected, has missed out as he copes with a back problem, but Sam Konstas has also been left out, with Cameron Green being named as Australia's only under-30 player in the squad.

Marnus Labuschagne has returned to the fold, with 31-year-old Jake Weatherald handed his first call-up.

"We're aware of the age profile of the team," said Bailey.

"I'm interested when people have that view as to who they would like us to leave. Is that Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc out? Is that just because of their age?

"You've got to give due respect that the guys are performing very well and they have the right to be selected."

On the omission of 20-year-old opener Konstas, Bailey said: "I feel for Sammy.

"We really like him. We like the skillset there and we're confident that over the long run it will continue to build out."

Uncapped duo Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett have also been included in the squad.

Australia squad for first Test: Steve Smith (captain), 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.