Aussie Ashes squad headlines: Weatherald and Doggett set for Perth bow
Australia have named a debut-rich squad for the first Test of this summer’s Ashes series in Perth, with opener Jake Weatherald and fast bowler Brendan Doggett confirmed to make their Test debuts. The selections come as a timely response to Josh Hazlewood’s hamstring injury, which has forced the team to rethink its pace options and balance for the opening fixture at Optus Stadium.
The decision to elevate Weatherald, a technically solid left-hander who has excelled in domestic limited-overs cricket, signals Australia’s willingness to push for a flexible top order. Weatherald’s domestic form, alongside his adaptability against diverse opponents, makes him a credible option to partner with Usman Khawaja at the top of the order. The Perth track is expected to offer something for seamers, but it will demand discipline and patience from the new opener as Australia aims to set a strong platform in the first innings.
Brendan Doggett: the pace option stepping up
Brendan Doggett’s inclusion in the squad reflects Australia’s desire to back a right-arm pace specialist who can maintain a brisk rhythm. With Hazlewood unavailable due to a hamstring strain, Doggett provides a like-for-like alternative who can bring sustained accuracy and late movement. His selection aligns with Australia’s plan to diversify their attack and ensure there are enough Test-ready quicks for the long haul of the series.
Doggett’s path to the Test arena has been steadily built through domestic success and a few notable international appearances. His ability to bowl with pace and perspective over long spells makes him a sensible choice to back up Pat Cummins and another strike bowler in the squad. Perth’s fast, often bouncy pitch will be a good test for Doggett’s lengths and control, and his early-match experience could be pivotal in stamping a pace-forward approach from the outset.
Context: Hazlewood injury and team balance
Josh Hazlewood’s hamstring injury created a ripple effect across Australia’s selection plans. The team has to balance risk with reward, choosing players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game. Weatherald’s ability to provide stroke-playing potential at the top, combined with Doggett’s pace, adds depth to a lineup that will also rely on established stars to anchor the innings and the bowling attack.
Crucially, selectors will be weighing how to protect their lead in the series while also maximizing their chances in an away environment. Captaincy and on-field management will come under scrutiny, as will the rotation of bowlers to maintain intensity across six Tests. The Perth Test offers the chance for Australia to lay down a strong marker, with Weatherald’s opening partnership and Doggett’s early spells likely to shape the game’s early moments.
What this means for Australia’s tactics
The inclusion of Weatherald invites a more adaptable top-order approach, enabling Australia to adapt to different conditions and weather in Perth. Weatherald’s left-handed stance could also present a different look for opponents planning their bowling strategy. Meanwhile, Doggett’s role as a pace option gives Australia two quicks with genuine speed, allowing Cummins to operate with clean air and more aggressive fields when the moments arise.
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on how Weatherald constructs his innings and how Doggett handles pressure in his Test debut. For fans, it’s a fresh storyline in a storied contest, with the added intrigue of new players stepping into the Ashes spotlight.
Key takeaways for fans
- Weatherald and Doggett to debut in the Perth Ashes opener.
- Quicker replacement options for Hazlewood raise pace stakes.
- Selection signals Australia’s willingness to blend youth with experience.
