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.