Cricket Australia has announced a 16-man Australian squad for the forth coming five-Test Ashes series against England. One of the major surprises in the recently announced squad is the non-inclusion of Andrew Symonds. The selectors declined to induct the hard-hitting batsman despite the recommendations of skipper Ricky Ponting. Shane Watson and Andrew McDonald were able to enter the Ashes squad as all-rounders.

 

Commenting on the new squad, chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said that the squad is a perfect blend of youth and experience and will surely do well in the Ashes series. The squad also has Phillip Hughes and Marcus North. Pacers like Bret Lee and Stuart Clark  were also recalled in the squad. Ricky Ponting has been named as the skipper of the side while Michael Clarke will be his deputy. South Australia's Graham Manou has been selected as back-up wicketkeeper to Brad Haddin.

 

The strong six-man pace attack will be led by pacer Mitchell Johnson. Phillip Hughes is the youngest player in the Aussie squad. The 20-year-old opening batsman scored four centuries during a six-week guest stint in England with county side Middlesex. Currently the Ashes title is held by Australian team. The five-Test series will start at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, from July 8, and will conclude at The Oval in late August.

 

Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke, Simon Katich, Phillip Hughes, Michael Hussey, Brad Haddin, Andrew McDonald, Marcus North, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Brett Lee, Stuart Clark, Ben Hilfenhaus, Nathan Hauritz, Graham Manou, Shane Watson.