Australia
Captain – Michael Clarke:
Of the two captains going into the Ashes, Clarke will have the biggest selection headache. The currently injured skipper has watched his Australia side defeated by a 4-0 whitewash in India.
However, Clarke himself has actually been in outstanding form with the bat and may have to truly lead from the front against England.
Batsmen:
David Warner – The powerful opener lost his rag in the final Test against India and also struggled with injury on the tour, but should be ready and fit for the Ashes.
Shane Watson – Despite speculation Watson will not be picked for the Ashes, the 31-year-old is too talented and experienced to miss out and may replace Ed Cowan as opener.
Phil Hughes – The batsman has struggled to fill the big boots left by the legendary Mike Hussey but should still be given a chance to prove himself by Clarke – especially as Hussey has ruled himself out of an Ashes return.
Usman Khawaja – After being suspended from the third Test in India, Khawaja looked like he may have permanently damaged his Ashes chances after also being dropped for the fourth. However, the batsman is still probably a better choice than Steve Smith
Wicketkeeper – Matthew Wade:
Wade has confirmed himself as Australia’s No.1 wicketkeeper since taking the position from Brad Haddin over 12 months ago.
Injury to Wade did mean Haddin played in the third Test of the India series, but a return for the fourth showed the faith in Wade’s ability.
All-rounder – Moises Henriques:
Unlike England, Clarke may opt for an all-rounder for Australia. Spin option Glenn Maxwell was used to little effect in India and some strong performances with the bat should confirm Henriques’ place.
Bowlers:
Mitchell Starc – The paceman is currently in Australia having an operation on his ankle but is expected to be fit for the Ashes and should be straight back in the side.
Peter Siddle – It could be a close call between Siddle and Ryan Harris, who has just returned from injury and starred in the Sheffield Shield final. However, Siddle will probably be given the chance to prove himself.
James Pattinson – The young bowler was another of the four suspended players in India, but after immediately apologising he helped build bridges with the Australian hierarchy. His talent will not be excluded.
Nathan Lyon – Despite an indifferent tour of India in spin-friendly conditions, Lyon is still by far Australia’s best spinner ahead of Maxwell and Xavier Doherty. Clarke will probably want a spin option for the deteriorating English pitches.
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