Ricky Ponting Sets Out Predicted 2027 Ashes Squad With Cummins Captain, Smith Retained
This is a personal projection, not an official selection.
Overview
- Speaking on 7 Cricket, the former captain outlined a 17-player forecast for the England tour that favors continuity after Australia retained the urn at home.
- Pat Cummins was tipped to lead, with senior figures Steve Smith, Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc kept in the fold despite recent injury interruptions during the 2025–26 series.
- Uncapped batter Campbell Kellaway was the standout new inclusion, with further depth flagged through Beau Webster and Oliver Peake alongside pace option Jhye Richardson.
- Alex Carey was retained as wicketkeeper, with Josh Inglis also named, while Ponting reaffirmed roles for Travis Head, Cameron Green, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland and Todd Murphy.
- In separate comments, Steve Smith said he has no plans to retire soon and indicated he would cede stand-in captaincy to a younger option if selectors prefer.