Cricket - A combination picture shows England's Ben Stokes, a replica Ashes urn and Australia's Steve Smith ahead of the first Ashes test. November 18, 2025. REUTERS
(Reuters) -Australia and England wrapped up their Ashes preparations on Thursday with the home side showing their hand with a pair of debutants while the visitors kept their final XI under wraps for the series-opening test.
Injuries have torn up Australia's best-laid plans twice in recent weeks but stand-in skipper Steve Smith was all calm as he confirmed that opener Jake Weatherald would face the new ball at Perth Stadium and paceman Brendan Doggett will slot into a depleted attack.
