Stokes: England Not Afraid as Bashir Earns Ashes Call-Up for Perth Opener

England named a 12-man squad for the first Ashes Test in Perth, with off-spinner Shoaib Bashir earning a surprise selection alongside a pace-heavy core. Four frontline quicks – Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse (over Josh Tongue) – form the fast-bowling backbone, while Ollie Pope keeps his place at number three ahead of Jacob Bethell. Wood spent extra time in the nets after an injury scare, with selectors waiting until the last moment to confirm his fitness for the series opener.

With Perth Stadium expected to serve up a quick, bouncy surface, pundits sense England could opt for an all-out pace assault from the outset. If that is the call, Stokes would offer support and Joe Root a part-time spin option, giving Bashir room to operate alongside England’s rapid fire. “Jofra and Woody are amazing bowlers and they’ll be huge for us this series,” Atkinson said, adding he is happy to play a supporting role. “Look it in the eyes” is the message Stokes has impressed on the team as they prepare to tackle Australia in their own backyard.

Sheaders of the squad, Bashir’s inclusion raises questions about balance and risk, especially in a series held down under by a relentless pace attack. Stokes has urged the squad to embrace the scale of the occasion, insisting that a fearless approach is essential to stand up to the challenge. England have not won a series in Australia since 2010-11, a drought that has included 13 losses and two draws, underscoring the magnitude of the task facing this group in Perth.

The Perth opener represents a decisive moment for England, with a combination of fearlessness, pace and a hint of spin to complement the big-name fast bowlers. The stage is set for a high-intensity start to what many are calling the biggest Ashes series in years.

Cover image source: England keep options open as Stokes tells team 'don't be afraid' 🔗

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