Who is captaining Australia in the first Ashes Test?

Steve Smith will captain Australia in the first Test in Pat Cummins' absence.

Which key Australian bowlers are injured for the Ashes opener?

Captain Pat Cummins (back) and Josh Hazlewood (hamstring) are injured for the first Test.

What are the main selection concerns for Australia's Ashes XI?

Australia is deciding on their opening batting pair and all-rounder, with key bowlers also unavailable.

Home / Sports / Australia's Ashes XI Uncertainty: Key Players Out for First Test

Australia's Ashes XI Uncertainty: Key Players Out for First Test

23 Nov, 2025

•

Summary

Captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are injured for the first Ashes Test.
Uncapped Brendan Doggett is an option to replace absent bowlers.
Australia faces batting order decisions ahead of the opening match.

Australia's Ashes XI Uncertainty: Key Players Out for First Test

Australia enters the first Ashes Test against England with considerable uncertainty surrounding their playing XI. Captain Pat Cummins will miss the crucial opening match due to a back injury, and fellow pace bowler Josh Hazlewood is also unavailable with a hamstring issue. This leaves a gap in their formidable bowling attack, with Scott Boland a confirmed inclusion and uncapped Brendan Doggett being considered as another option.

The batting lineup also presents selection dilemmas. Key players like Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Travis Head are profiled, with discussions around who will open and who will fill the all-rounder position. Cameron Green's potential return to bowling could influence batting order decisions.

With a history of Ashes dominance, Australia is keen to retain the urn. However, the current injury concerns and selection questions for the XI mean the team faces a complex challenge in its bid to start the series strongly against England.