With the extremely anticipated Ashes 2025–26 sequence set to start on November 21 in Perth, pleasure is constructing throughout the cricketing world. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, identified for his sharp cricketing acumen and tactical perception, has added to the pre-series buzz by unveiling his most well-liked Australian XI for the primary Take a look at. With accidents disrupting Australia’s standard bowling assault, Ponting’s alternatives replicate each adaptability and religion in rising expertise.
Ricky Ponting unveils his most well-liked XI for the Perth Take a look at
Talking on The ICC Assessment, Ponting shared the lineup he believes provides Australia the strongest likelihood of beginning the Ashes on a profitable be aware. With Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood dominated out of the opening Take a look at as a result of harm, Australia have been pressured to rethink their bowling mixtures—opening the door for brand spanking new faces.
Ponting shocked many by naming Jake Weatherald as his option to open the batting alongside veteran Usman Khawaja. Whereas Weatherald is but to make his Take a look at debut, his current red-ball type and attacking type have earned him Ponting’s backing.
“I really feel that Australia’s finest workforce has Jake Weatherald opening the batting together with (Usman) Khawaja,” Ponting stated, giving the left-hander a significant vote of confidence.
At No. 3, Ponting has proven full religion in Marnus Labuschagne, praising the batter for his prolific home season and constant contributions.
“He’s carried out completely the whole lot that’s been requested of him over the past month, scoring a whole lot at will, coming again into the facet at No.3,” Ponting remarked.
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Recent faces within the tempo assault as Brendan Doggett earns Ponting’s assist
With two frontline pacers unavailable, Ponting’s XI features a reshaped tempo unit that includes Scott Boland, Mitchell Starc, and Brendan Doggett. Doggett, who has impressed in home cricket together with his capability to extract bounce and motion, was picked forward of Michael Neser.
“Boland, Starc, and possibly Doggett will get the nod forward of Michael Neser,” Ponting stated, highlighting the tempo and selection Doggett brings to the assault.
Spin duties stay within the dependable palms of Nathan Lyon, whom Ponting described as a certainty in Australian circumstances.
“Nathan Lyon, who was at all times going to play anyway, I feel that shall be Australia’s workforce,” he added.
Within the center order, the previous captain retained a well-known construction with Steve Smith at No. 4, Travis Head at No. 5, and all-rounder Cameron Inexperienced at No. 6. Alex Carey retains his place because the wicketkeeper-batter at No. 7.
Ricky Ponting’s Australia XI for the primary Take a look at: Jake Weatherald, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Inexperienced, Alex Carey, Scott Boland, Mitchell Starc, Brendan Doggett, Nathan Lyon
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