The Cricket Australia (CA) National Selection Panel (NSP) today announced the following 12-player squad for the opening Commonwealth Bank Ashes Test against England at the Gabba, starting Thursday 21 November.
The 12-player Australian squad is:
Michael Clarke (c)
Brad Haddin (vc)
George Bailey
James Faulkner
Ryan Harris
Mitchell Johnson
Nathan Lyon
Chris Rogers
Peter Siddle
Steve Smith
David Warner
Shane Watson
Commenting on the squad, National Selector John Inverarity said: “We have settled on a strong 12-player squad for the opening Test of this important series.
“Ten players who represented Australia in its most recent Test match, which was at the Oval in August, have been retained in this squad. Mitchell Starc is unavailable due to injury and he has been replaced by Mitchell Johnson.
“We have included George Bailey in this line-up and are excited by what he can offer at Test level. George has shown outstanding international form over the past 20 months, including the recent limited-overs series in India. He is calm and composed and comes into the squad full of confidence.
“Mitchell Johnson has been bowling impressively in recent times. He has good rhythm and is generating good pace.
“James Faulkner has retained his place in the squad and his all-round development over the past five months has been most noticeable and pleasing.
“As selectors we are confident that this squad will provide options for a well-balanced XI that will acquit itself very well in Brisbane,” Inverarity said.
Some players not involved in Bupa Sheffield Shield matches, including Clarke, Siddle, Harris and Johnson will arrive at the National Cricket Centre later this week.