Steve Smith will captain Australia for the first Ashes Test in Perth. image: X.com Show Quick Read Summary is AI Generated. Newsroom Reviewed

Australia has confirmed its squad for the first Ashes Test in Perth, set to begin on November 21. Steve Smith will lead the side in the absence of Pat Cummins.

Cummins has been ruled out due to a back injury but hopes to return for the second Test in Brisbane on December 4.

Selectors have included three players without previous Test experience in the 15-man squad. Jake Weatherald is in contention for an opening role, with both he and Marnus Labuschagne considered possible partners for Usman Khawaja at the top of the order.

Weatherald’s selection emerged as the most unexpected move when chief selector George Bailey revealed the squad for the

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