Ashes 2019: Australia announce 17-member squad to face England
What's the story
Australia have announced a 17-member squad for Ashes 2019 starting August 1.
The biggest highlight was the selection of opening batsman Cameron Bancroft.
The 26-year-old has been named for the first time post a nine-month ban for his role in the ball-tampering scandal against South Africa last year.
Steve Smith and David Warner are set to feature as well.
Here's more.
Information
Australia's Ashes 2019 squad
Here's a look at Australia's Ashes squad: Tim Paine (captain and wicket-keeper), Cameron Bancroft, Patrick Cummins, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Peter Siddle, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade and David Warner.
Bancroft
Bancroft was axed by CA alongside Smith and Warner
Bancroft made his return to competitive cricket with the Big Bash League (BBL) on December 30, 2018 for Perth Scorchers.
Prior to that, he did not play club cricket ever since his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal.
Bancroft was caught trying to use sandpaper to alter the ball against South Africa in 2018.
He was banned by Cricket Australia alongside Smith and Warner.
Bancroft form
Bancroft has been in solid form
Bancroft has worked hard and earned the call-up.
He has been piling on the runs for Durham in England's County.
In June 2019, he smashed 158 against Sussex. That was followed by knocks of 77 and 92* against Lancashire.
Earlier this month, Bancroft smashed 109 against Leicestershire.
Overall, the opener has featured in eight Tests for Australia. He averages 30.92.
Smith
Smith will want to govern against England bowlers
A lot will depend on Smith and Warner.
The two made a strong comeback during the 2019 World Cup and helped Aussies reach the semis.
During the 2017-18 Ashes, Smith was in commanding form.
He belted the English bowlers and led the Aussies to a commanding series win.
Smith will want to score immensely under current Test skipper Tim Paine.
Quote
'Smith, Warner and Bancroft have forced their way back'
"David Warner, Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft have forced their way back in to the Test squad through the excellence of their recent performances," said chairman of selectors Trevor Hohns.
Bowling
Aussie have gone in with a serious pace attack
Besides Bancroft, fast bowler James Pattinson made a return to the side.
He joins an established list of fast bowlers that include the likes of Josh Hazlewood, Michael Neser, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle.
Premier stars Starc, Cummins and Hazlewood claimed 66 wickets between them in the 2017-18 Ashes at home.
Pace-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has also been called up.