Ashes 2021-22: Alex Carey included in Australia’s 15-member squad

Australia have named their 15-member Ashes squad for the first two Test matches. Uncapped wicketkeeper batter Alex Carey has been picked in the team and is set to make his Test debut in the first match of the series starting on December 8 at Gabba in Brisbane.

Carey, Josh Inglis, and Matthew Wade were in contention to be designated wicketkeeper batter following Tim Paine’s resignation as captain and his decision to take an indefinite break from the game. Carey has now got the nod. The southpaw has a fair bit of experience playing limited-overs format for Australia. He also has a solid record in Sheffield Shield.

Australian chairman of selectors George Bailey feels Carey is an ideal candidate to don the gloves in place of Paine. “Alex has been a regular member of the national side in white-ball cricket, particularly in the one-day game. He is an excellent cricketer and a fine individual who will bring many great strengths into the team. He will be a very deserved holder of baggy green cap number 461,” he said according to cricket.com.au.

Ever since his making his debut for Australia in the limited-overs format, Carey has gone to do well in the middle-order. Also the 30-year-old was in the leadership role for the team in the white-ball formats. In the Sheffield Shield too he has an average of 50 playing for Western Australia for the past two seasons.

The southpaw now has a chance to cement a place in the team in the longest format. Carey is humbled to get this opportunity and is preparing for the challenges that await the team.

“I am incredibly humbled by this opportunity. It’s an exciting build-up for what is a huge series ahead. My focus is on preparing and playing my part in helping Australia secure the Ashes. I will be doing my absolute best to make them and our country proud,” he said.