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The telling sign that might reveal England's plans for First Test
Nicholas Quinlan • November 13th, 2025 7:15 pm
If England’s XI for their practice match is anything to go by, then it appears that they are going all in on their pace attack for the First Test in Perth.
In their three-day match against the Lions XI, which started today in Perth, England has named Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Mark Wood in their First XI, with captain Ben Stokes also bowling.
But as noted by BBC Sport’s Chief Cricket Reporter, Stephan Shemilt, the absence of off-spinner Shoaib Bashir from England’s XI might be an indication of their plans for the First Test to play four pace bowlers in Perth.
“It’s interesting to note that they left Shoaib Bashir out of there,” Shemilt noted on SEN’s Afternoons.
“So, there is no spinner in the England XI, maybe that is a little bit of a hint to their plans for the First Test at Optus Stadium next week.”
Shemilt was also asked about who in the English line-up could have the biggest impact for England in this series, with the journalist believing that vice-captain Harry Brook will be the man to do so.
“I think the one in line for a big series is Harry Brook,” he added.
“He’s up there with Joe Root as England’s best batter. He will take on that mantle once Root stops playing Test Cricket, and I think he is in line for a breakout series.
“And I think the way he plays, I think the Australian public will really take to him.”
At Lunch, the Lions XI was 2/116 with Stokes having taken both wickets.
The Ashes will get underway on November 21 at Optus Stadium.
