England has announced its 12-man squad for the highly anticipated first Test of the Ashes series. Former vice-captain Ollie Pope has secured his position at No. 3, thanks to his impressive performances in the warm-up match against the England Lions, where he scored 100 and 90. This solid form has ensured that Jacob Bethell will have to wait for his turn to make his Ashes debut.

In a notable inclusion, spinner Shoaib Bashir makes the 12-man list, bringing added depth to the squad. However, his spot in the final playing eleven remains uncertain, especially with the presence of all-rounder Will Jacks being left out. The team is also bolstered by the return of fast bowler Mark Wood, who has recovered from recent hamstring soreness, which is vital for maintaining pace on the pitch.

The conditions in Perth are expected to favor a seam-heavy attack, prompting England to select four key fast bowlers: Wood, Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, and Gus Atkinson. This choice indicates a strategic approach to the match, utilizing the grassy pitch to their advantage. Overall, England's squad demonstrates a balance of experience and emerging talent as they prepare to compete fiercely in the Ashes opener, marking a significant event in the cricketing calendar.