Ricky Ponting selects Australia’s 16-man squad for 2027 Ashes; picks two uncapped players
As Australia was close to wrapping up a successful Ashes defense 3-1 at home, legendary former captain Ricky Ponting was looking forward to the comeback tour in 2027 England. Speaking on 7Cricketsthe 51-year-old icon has unveiled a “visionary” 16-man squad that blends a defiant confidence in Australia’s aging. “Golden generation” with the sudden injection of two teenage sensations. Ponting’s selections highlight that while the ‘urn’ is safe for now, the battle conditions in England in two years’ time will require a specialized blend of veteran mastery and fresh, fearless legs.
Ricky Ponting’s vote of confidence on Pat Cummins and Steve Smith for Ashes 2025-26
Despite growing concerns about an “aging core”, Ponting has doubled down on experience. He strongly supported Patrick Cummins to lead the team into the 2027 series, dismissing any talk of the captain leaving despite recent back problems. In particular, he included Steve Smith (who will be 38 years old) and Nathan Lyon (nearly 40 years old), it could be that their historic success against the Duke’s ball and their mastery of the English flight are strengths that cannot be accelerated in younger players.
Ponting’s next-gen picks for Ashes 2025-26
The headlines from Ponting’s revelation centered on two young Victorians: 23 Campbell Kellaway and 19 years old Olivier Peake. Kellaway is considered the technical heir of Usman KhawajaThe opening slot for, while Peake, a left-handed prodigy who dominated the Under-19 World Cup, is the ‘X-factor’ inclusion designed to transition to the middle order.
Overall record for Australia against England
Responding to the need for versatility in England, Ponting retained Cameron Green despite a difficult 2025-26 summer where his batting average dropped to 32.25. Green’s “stiff and stiff” technique can be corrected and his height remains a deadly weapon on English pitches. To provide assurance, he also appointed Beau Websterthe Tasmanian giant who has been in “stunning” form with both bat and ball.
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Rhythm drumming and rotation contingency
While relying on the ‘Big Three’ of Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood, Ponting’s team ensures that the pacey attack is not left behind. He named Jhye Richardson And Scott Boland as primary backup options, noting that Boland’s “heavy ball” remains ideally suited to the relentless lengths required at venues like Edgbaston and The Oval. In the spin department, Todd Murphy has been named Lyon’s designated successor, ensuring a ‘passing of the torch’ is ready to take place mid-series if necessary.
Ricky Ponting’s predicted team for the Australia Ashes 2027 for the England series:
- Direction: Pat Cummins (c)
- Best order: Travis Head, Campbell Kellaway, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith
- Middle Order/Youth: Oliver Peake, Beau Webster
- Wicketkeepers: Alex Carey (week), Josh Inglis
- Versatile: Cameron Green
- Fast bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Jhye Richardson
- Spinners: Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy
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