Ricky Ponting chooses 2027 Ashes squad, trusts Nathan Lyon's longevity

The 2025-26 Ashes series has almost come to an end, as former Australian captain Ricky Ponting announced his Australian squad for the 2027 Ashes. Notably, following the India tour at the end of 2026, Australia will be touring England for the five-match Test series.

Australia has already won the 2025-26 Ashes, with England winning the Boxing Day Test, saving their face in the host country. Well, England is also yet to win an Ashes in their home country too since Alastair Cook won the last one in 2015.

Meanwhile, Ponting makes his squad announcement, where Pat Cummins will be leading almost the same squad as of 2025-26, in a segment with 7 cricket. The team has been a blend of experience and young talents but full of risk factors, including aging and injury.

The first risk comes with Pat Cummins, the captain, who mostly sat at the bench due to his ongoing back issues. Well under Cummins' captaincy, Ponting chose Travis Head, the top-order aggressive batter, partnered by Campbell Kellaway. A rising young left-handed batter delivering consistent runs in Sheffield Shield cricket  and strong technique makes him suited to opening against the Duke's ball.

Ponting showed faith in Marnus Labuschagne in the middle, accompanied by Smith, followed by the young Oliver Peake. Oliver earned the attention as a left-hander with major runs at the Under-19 level and strong early domestic contributions.  However, Smith will be 37 by that time, doubting his availability.

Read also: Hardik Pandya Dropped from IND vs NZ ODI Squad? BCCI Explains Selection Decision

Keeping and bowling 

In the keeping, Ponting trusted Alex Carey and Josh Inglis as his backup. And importantly, both can contribute decent runs with the bats when needed.

Ponting added Green, who adds balance to team composition. While recent form has been questioned at times, Ponting’s faith suggests he values Green’s multi-dimensional skill set. He even mentioned Webster, who can be used as the third spinner if conditions support it.

Apart from the fast bowling trio, Ponting picked Jhye Richardson and Scott Boland for pace and young Todd Murphy with OG Nathan Lyon for the spin. Like Smith, Boland too will be 37, with Lyon almost nearing 39.

Ricky Ponting's 2027 Ashes squad:

Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Campbell Kellaway, marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, oliver Paeke, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, scott Boland, Josh Inglis, Jhye Richardson, Todd Murphy, Beau Webster