Australia Selects Young Squad for England Warm-Up Match

Australia has announced the Prime Minister’s XI squad for the upcoming two-day tour match against England, set to be played in Canberra from November 29. The match comes at a crucial time, as it falls between the first and second Ashes Tests and serves as England’s only warm-up with the pink ball before the day-night Test in Brisbane on December 4. For Australia, the match is an important platform to test young talent and keep backup players ready in case changes are required during the Ashes series.

One of the biggest highlights of the selection is 20-year-old opener Sam Konstas, who was recently dropped from the Test squad. His inclusion in the Prime Minister’s XI shows that the selectors still view him as an important part of Australia’s long-term plans. By giving him an opportunity against England, they are ensuring he remains match-ready should an injury affect the Australian top order. Konstas impressed many last summer, and this match will give him another chance to prove his consistency against high-level opposition.

Another notable selection is Nathan McSweeney, who Konstas had replaced during his Test debut against India last home season. McSweeney’s return to the PM XI adds further depth to the squad’s middle-order batting, and the match will allow him to showcase the strong domestic form that has kept him on selectors’ radar. The team will be led by experienced batter Peter Handscomb, whose calm and steady leadership is expected to guide the young squad effectively.

While the squad is largely made up of emerging Australian talent, one name stands out due to his long and successful history — veteran fast bowler Peter Siddle. Now nearing 41, Siddle’s involvement offers a mix of experience and mentorship to the younger bowlers in the squad. His presence adds balance to the attack, and his understanding of English batting styles could provide valuable insights for the team.

The Prime Minister’s XI match has long been a traditional fixture in Australian cricket, giving young players a chance to test themselves against touring international sides. This year’s match holds even greater importance, as England seeks much-needed pink-ball practice in Australian conditions, something that has often challenged visiting teams. The tour game also helps keep Australia’s extended squad active during the intense Ashes season.

The selected PM XI squad includes a blend of promising young batters, emerging bowlers, experienced leaders, and dependable veterans. With the Ashes starting in Perth on Friday, the timing of this match allows Australia to assess form, prepare contingencies, and offer England meaningful preparation before the day-night Test.

Prime Minister’s XI Squad:
Peter Handscomb (capt), Benji Floros, Campbell Kellaway, Campbell Thompson, Charlie Anderson, Doug Warren, Hugh Weibgen, Joel Curtis, Nathan McSweeney, Oliver Peake, Peter Siddle, Sam Konstas, Sam Skelly.

The match in Canberra is expected to attract strong interest from cricket fans, especially those eager to see the next generation of Australian talent competing on a big stage. For Konstas and others, it is more than just a warm-up game — it is an opportunity to secure their future in Australian cricket.