England has announced its 16-member squad for the Ashes 2025-26. Ben Stokes will captain this five-Test series, while Harry Brook has been named vice-captain. The England team will tour Australia in November to play the Ashes series.
Sports News: The England cricket team has unveiled its 16-member squad for the Ashes 2025-26. Ben Stokes will lead the team as captain for this five-Test series, with Harry Brook selected as vice-captain. The England team will tour Australia in November 2025, and the first Test of the series will be played from November 21 in Perth.
Key Players and Experience in the Team
England's squad includes experienced batsmen such as Ben Stokes, Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, and Ollie Pope. Additionally, wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will have responsibilities in both batting and wicketkeeping. Will Jacks is making a comeback to the team after three years. Jacks is a right-handed batsman and also an important spin bowling option.
Although he is currently recovering from a finger injury, the England Cricket Board (ECB) is confident that he will be fit by the Ashes series. Jacks last played Test cricket in December 2022 against Pakistan.
Strength of Fast Bowlers
England's fast bowling attack includes Mark Wood, Matthew Potts, Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, Gus Atkinson, and Josh Tongue. Mark Wood is making a comeback to the team after recovering from a left knee injury. Matthew Potts last played a Test against New Zealand in December 2024 and delivered a stellar performance in the County season, taking 28 wickets in 10 matches for Durham.
Jofra Archer will spearhead the fast bowling attack, providing an aggressive edge to the team. The spin department includes Shoaib Bashir, Will Jacks, Joe Root, and Jacob Bethell. This combination will offer the team balanced bowling options on Australian pitches. Shoaib Bashir has also earned a spot in the team after recovering from an injury.
Ashes Series Schedule
- First Test: November 21 – Perth
- Second Test: December 4 – Brisbane
- Third Test: December 17 – Adelaide
- Fourth Test: December 26 – Melbourne
- Fifth Test: January 4 – Sydney
England's team has a balanced mix of experienced batsmen and fast bowlers. Captain Ben Stokes' aggressive leadership and vice-captain Harry Brook's stability strengthen the team. Furthermore, Will Jacks' return and Mark Wood's fitness are major positive signs for England. The batting line-up includes stable batsmen like Joe Root, Ben Duckett, and Ollie Pope, alongside youthful dynamism.
England's Squad
Ben Stokes (Captain), Harry Brook (Vice-Captain), Zak Crawley, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper), Will Jacks, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir, Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Josh Tongue, and Mark Wood.
