Ponting Includes Smith, Lyon, Starc In His Australia's Squad For 2027 Ashes

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has outlined his vision for the next Ashes series in England in 2027, advocating for a largely familiar core after Australia comfortably retained the urn at home against England.

Speaking on 7 Cricket, the 51-year-old proposed minimal changes to the current Test setup, expressing confidence in the experience and resilience of senior players Steve Smith and Nathan Lyon.

So Who Did Ricky Ponting Pick?

Both suffered injury setbacks during the ongoing 2025–26 Ashes series, with Lyon playing in only a couple of Tests and Smith missing one match, but they have firmly dismissed retirement speculation. Their proven success in English conditions further reinforced Ponting’s position.

Ponting also endorsed Pat Cummins to continue leading the team

through to 2027, naming him captain of his projected squad designed to balance established performers with emerging talent.

Alex Carey was retained as wicketkeeper in Ponting’s predicted lineup. With 47 Tests and over 2,400 runs, Carey has developed into a reliable lower-order batter and a consistent presence behind the stumps, especially during high-pressure Ashes encounters in both England and Australia.

The most notable inclusion was uncapped youngster Campbell Kellaway, whom Ponting identified as a long-term investment for Australian cricket. He also reiterated his support for Cameron Green despite a modest run of form in the current series, while suggesting Josh Inglis could play a crucial role in the 2027 contest.

Ponting believes Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc will remain central to Australia’s plans, while fast bowlers Scott Boland and Jhye Richardson continue to compete for a permanent spot in the playing XI.

Ricky Ponting’s predicted Australia squad for Ashes 2027:

1. Pat Cummins (c)
2. Alex Carey (wk)
3. Scott Boland
4. Travis Head
5. Cameron Green
6. Josh Inglis
7. Campbell Kellaway
8. Mitchell Starc
9. Jhye Richardson
10. Marnus Labuschagne
11. Josh Hazlewood
12. Todd Murphy
13. Steve Smith
14. Nathan Lyon
15. Beau Webster
16. Oliver Peake

(With inputs from Agencies)