Cricket Australia announced its playing XI for the first Ashes Test in Perth, with Steve Smith leading the side in the absence of injured skipper Pat Cummins and pacer Josh Hazlewood.

Jake Weatherald received his maiden cap and will open the innings alongside Usman Khawaja. Brendan Doggett also earned his debut, joining Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland to complete Australia’s pace attack. Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, and Nathan Lyon round out the lineup.

Smith’s captaincy marks a crucial moment for Australia as they begin the Ashes campaign with a mix of experience and fresh talent. Weatherald’s inclusion strengthens the top order, while Doggett’s pace adds depth to the bowling unit.

England earlier named a 12-man squad featuring Shoaib Bashir as the lone s

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