Summary
England's head coach, Brendon McCullum, expects the selection of the Ashes squad to be straightforward, with most players already decided. The squad for the tour in Australia, starting in November, will be announced soon, focusing mainly on backup roles. England will play matches in Ireland and New Zealand as preparation for the Ashes series.
Key Facts
- England's Ashes tour in Australia begins on November 21, starting in Perth.
- The Ashes squad will be announced the week of September 22.
- Coach Brendon McCullum expects the selection meeting to be brief since most of the squad is already decided.
- England might include up to seven fast bowlers, or seamers, in the squad.
- Rehan Ahmed is likely to be the backup for main spinner Shoaib Bashir.
- Ollie Pope can act as the backup wicketkeeper to Jamie Smith if necessary.
- England will take an additional group of players called the England Lions to support and play warm-up matches.
- Jacob Bethell could replace Ollie Pope, but no decision will be made until the team arrives in Australia.
