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Ashes: Australia's squad for first Test against England announced

12th November, 2013
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Chairman of selectors John Inverarity. Photo: AFP/William West
12th November, 2013
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Australia’s selectors have announced the first Ashes Test squad of 12 to take on England at the Gabba on November 21.

Chairman of selectors John Inverarity announced the selections at the new National Cricket Centre in Brisbane, after a short delay due a late plane arrival.

George Bailey has been favoured over Alex Doolan for the middle order and is set to make his debut, while Mitchell Johnson replaces Mitchell Starc from the previous Ashes series, with Starc out due to injury.

Shane Watson is in the squad, despite a hamstring injury concern which may prevent him from bowling many overs in the first Test. With nine days to the Ashes, Watson may make a full recover.

James Faulkner retains his spot in the squad from The Oval, and is the most likely 12th-man for Australia.

“We have settled on a strong 12-player squad for the opening Test of this important series,” said Inverarity in his comments regarding the squad.

“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 Mitchell Starc is unavailable due to injury and he has been replaced by Mitchell Johnson.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.

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“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,” said Inverarity.

Some players not involved in Sheffield Shield matches, including Clarke, Siddle, Harris and Johnson will arrive at the National Cricket Centre later this week.

Australia’s squad to take on England in the first Test of the Ashes series at the Gabba, commencing November 21
Chris Rogers
David Warner
Shane Watson
Michael Clarke (c)
Steve Smith
George Bailey
Brad Haddin (vc)
Peter Siddle
Ryan Harris
Mitchell Johnson
Nathan Lyon
James Faulkner

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