Last Updated on 3 years by Charbel Coorey

Cricket News: Alex Carey added to Ashes squad, will debut at the Gabba | Wicket-keeper Alex Carey to debut for Australia in the 1st Ashes Test

It’s official. Alex Carey has been selected as Australia’s keeper-batsman for the first Ashes Test next week, edging out Josh Inglis for the position.

Carey, who has long been earmarked as a potential leader in the Test side, will replace Tim Paine as the wicket-keeper batsman. Paine, who resigned from the captaincy two weeks ago, recently took a leave of absence from all cricket which opened the door for Carey to make his Test debut at the Gabba.

Alex Carey to become Australia’s 461st Test player

Carey will have a key role to play as Australia’s keeper and number seven batsman. He has endured a poor season in Sheffield Shield cricket with five single-digit scores in a row, but selectors are confident that the talented left-hander can deliver on the big stage.

Carey has had a taste of international cricket in white-ball cricket, and possesses 45 matches of First Class experience where he averages nearly 35. In a release, Australia’s new keeper-batsman said he is incredibly humbled and paid tribute to the role his family played in helping him reach this stage.

“I am incredibly humbled by this opportunity. It’s an exciting build-up for what is a huge series ahead,” Carey said.

“My focus is on preparing and playing my part in helping Australia secure the Ashes.

“This is also for my dad who has been my coach, mentor and mate, my mum, my wife Eloise, kids Louis and Clementine, my brother and sister and all of those who have supported me. I will be doing my absolute best to make them and our country proud.”

Australia confirms captain and keeper

Tim Paine’s shock resignation left gaps to fill in the Australian side. Pat Cummins has since been named as captain, with Steve Smith his deputy. Now, Carey will take the gloves and aim to make a great impression right away.

Australia currently hold the urn after a 4-0 series win in 2017/18, before retaining it in England in 2019. The first Test begins at the Gabba next week, with Australia’s cricketers keen to hit the ground running despite preparations marred by Brisbane rain.