The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) unveiled their 16-player squad for the 2025 Ashes series, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting Test campaign in Australia. The squad, which was announced on September 23, comes with some notable surprises, as well as changes in leadership roles and a few key recalls.
Big Surprises in England’s 2025 Ashes Squad
One of the biggest talking points is the unexpected recall of Will Jacks, who last played a Test match in December 2022. Jacks, who has only participated in three County Championship matches for Surrey this year, has earned a spot in the squad over Rehan Ahmed, a player who was expected to get the call-up due to his outstanding red-ball form. The decision to select Jacks has raised eyebrows, especially considering his limited involvement in first-class cricket in 2023.
In another major development, Harry Brook has been appointed as the new vice-captain of the team, replacing Ollie Pope. Pope, who had previously captained England in their last Test match against India, has been struggling with inconsistent form and uncertainty over his place in the team. Brook, the white-ball captain, has now been elevated to this important leadership role ahead of the Ashes.
Key Players and Injuries Ahead of the 2025 Ashes
While there are a few changes to the squad, several key players remain in contention for the Ashes series. England’s batting lineup remains largely unchanged, with Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, and captain Ben Stokes all expected to feature prominently in the first Test. Jacks is named as a batting reserve, alongside Jacob Bethell, both of whom could come into the XI if needed.
The fast-bowling department sees a few notable returns and exclusions. Chris Woakes, who was sidelined with a shoulder injury during the India series, has been left out of the squad, while Mark Wood, who hasn’t played a Test match in over a year, has made his return. Wood will join Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse, and Matthew Potts in leading the pace attack. Shoaib Bashir, the only specialist spinner in the squad, will take on the responsibility of spin duties, with Liam Dawson missing out.
The first Ashes Test is scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth, and England will be hoping to end their 14-year winless streak in Australia, dating back to the 2010/11 Ashes series.
Full England Squad for the 2025 Ashes
- Ben Stokes (Captain)
- Jofra Archer
- Gus Atkinson
- Shoaib Bashir
- Jacob Bethell
- Harry Brook (Vice-Captain)
- Brydon Carse
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Will Jacks
- Ollie Pope
- Matthew Potts
- Joe Root
- Jamie Smith
- Josh Tongue
- Mark Wood
With the Ashes series fast approaching, England’s squad selection has generated much debate and excitement, and fans are eagerly awaiting the first ball to be bowled in Perth.
