Jake Ball to play, England name Ashes XI
Nov 22, 2017 - 7:23 AM England have named their XI for the first Ashes Test, with Jake Ball claiming the final spot in their pace attack.Ball has recovered from a sprained ankle and will play the fourth Test of his career, having been picked ahead of fellow quick Craig Overton.
"Jake has bowled well when he's had opportunities on the tour and the way he goes about things on these surfaces could be really challenging for the Australians," skipper Joe Root said.
"It wasn't an easy decision. Craig has come into the squad and everything asked of him he's done really well.
"He's worked really hard and done everything he can to make sure he's in top shape for the first Test."
The tourists' batting order is yet to be confirmed, with Root unwilling to shed any light on where allrounder Moeen Ali will slot in.
"You'll have to wait see. We have to keep something up our sleeve," Root said.
"I don't think it really matters. We've got a very talented batting unit that bats a long way down."
England XI: Alastair Cook, Mark Stoneman, James Vince, Joe Root (capt), Dawid Malan, Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow, Chris Woakes, Jake Ball, Stuart Broad, Jimmy Anderson.
Source: AAP
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