Jake Weatherald’s Ashes Debut Leaves Selectors with Tough Decisions
Sydney, 8 January 2026 – Jake Weatherald, the 31-year-old Adelaide Strikers batsman, made his Test debut for Australia in the Ashes 2025-26 series against England. Despite showing promise with a half-century, his struggles against full deliveries and low average have sparked debates about his place in the team ahead of future tours.
Ashes Performance Overview
Weatherald played in all five Tests of the series, scoring 167 runs at an average of 20.87. His highest score was 72 in the second innings at the Gabba, but he faced repeated LBW dismissals, particularly to balls swinging into his pads. Former players like Justin Langer highlighted this as a key weakness, noting how England exploited it effectively. In the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Weatherald was dismissed for 21 after reviewing an LBW decision unsuccessfully.
Key Statistics
| Category | Test Career (Ashes 2025-26) |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 5 |
| Runs Scored | 167 |
| Batting Average | 20.87 |
| Highest Score | 72 |
| Dismissals (LBW) | 4 out of 8 |
| Catches | 1 |
Future Prospects
With Australia’s next Test matches not until August against Bangladesh, Weatherald has time to improve in the Sheffield Shield. Selectors must decide if he can adapt to away conditions in tours to South Africa, India, and England in 2026-27. Alternatives like Matthew Renshaw, Sam Konstas, and Campbell Kellaway are waiting, but Weatherald’s experience at the top order could be valuable if he overcomes his technical flaws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jake Weatherald?
Jake Weatherald is a left-handed batsman from Darwin, Northern Territory, who plays for Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League. He made his Test debut for Australia in November 2025 during the Ashes series.
What are his domestic stats?
In first-class cricket, Weatherald has scored 5,468 runs at an average of 36.69, with 13 centuries. In the Big Bash League, he has 2,176 runs at 25.6, including a high score of 115.
Why is his Test place under threat?
His low average and vulnerability to LBW dismissals in the Ashes have raised concerns. Experts suggest he needs to work on his technique against full balls to secure his spot.