Jake Weatherald has been named in Australia's Ashes squad and is the leading contender to open the batting with Usman Khawaja in the first Test in Perth, starting on 21 November at Optus Stadium.
The Tasmania batter has impressed selectors with his consistent performances over the past 18 to 24 months. Chief selector George Bailey said Weatherald's method complements the other players in the squad and praised his scoring rate and innings-building approach.
Weatherald averages nearly 38 in first-class cricket and has scored three half-centuries in three Sheffield Shield matches this season. His inclusion dashes the hopes of recalls for Sam Konstas and Matt Renshaw.
Marnus Labuschagne is also in the squad after being left out of the West Indies tour earlier this year. Bailey confirmed Labuschagne has the capability to open and has made adjustments to his batting.
The final lineup will depend on the fitness of all-rounder Cameron Green, who is recovering from side soreness. Bailey wants to see Green bowl 15 to 20 overs in the next Shield match but did not rule out selecting him as a specialist batter.
Steve Smith will captain the side in the first Test, with Pat Cummins continuing his rehabilitation. Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett provide bowling depth.
