<h2>England Name 16 Man Ashes Squad - Three Point Summary:&nbsp;</h2> <p>-Ben Stokes declared fit for Ashes despite shoulder concerns as England finalise 16-man squad</p> <p>-Will Jacks earns surprise selection as back-up spinner after three-year Test absence</p> <p>-Mark Wood returns from a knee injury to form part of a formidable pace attack for the five-Test series starting in Perth on November 21</p> <p>England have named their Ashes squad for the upcoming Australian tour, with captain Ben Stokes cleared to lead despite recent injury concerns.</p> <p>England is chasing to regain the coveted ‘little urn’ for the first time since 2015, and a first Test victory in Australia since 2011.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Skipper Stokes Cleared Despite Shoulder Worries</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>England selectors have provided reassurance around Ben Stokes' fitness, confirming the captain "remains on track to be available" for the series opener in Perth on November 21. The all-rounder missed England's final Test against India at The Oval due to a shoulder injury, raising concerns about his participation in cricket's most anticipated series.</p> <p>While Stokes' batting availability appears secure, questions remain over his bowling contribution following the recent shoulder setback. The Durham star's dual role as captain and key all-rounder makes his fitness crucial to England's Ashes hopes in Australia.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Surprise Selection for Will Jacks</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The most unexpected inclusion sees Will Jacks earn selection as England's back-up off-spinner, marking his return to Test cricket after nearly three years. The 26-year-old's last Test appearances came in Pakistan, with selectors preferring him over established spinners Jack Leach, Liam Dawson, and Rehan Ahmed.</p> <p>Jacks brings modest first-class bowling figures of 49 wickets at 42.22, positioning him behind primary spinner Shoaib Bashir in the pecking order. The Surrey all-rounder's inclusion reflects England's continued search for spin bowling depth ahead of challenging Australian conditions.</p> <p>Harry Brook assumes vice-captaincy duties from Ollie Pope, who remains in the squad as a specialist batsman. This leadership reshuffle demonstrates England's strategic planning for the demanding five-Test campaign across Australia's major cricket venues.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Pace Attack Takes Shape</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>England's bowling stocks receive a significant boost with Mark Wood's return from a season-ending knee injury. The Durham speedster missed the entire English summer but provides crucial pace options for Australian pitches known to favour genuine fast bowling.</p> <p>Jofra Archer continues his Test comeback, having played just two matches since returning from four years of fitness struggles. The Sussex quick's availability adds another dimension to England's pace attack alongside established performers Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse.</p> <p>Matthew Potts earns selection despite last featuring in Test cricket during December 2024, highlighting England's depth in seam bowling options. The Durham bowler's inclusion provides additional cover for a demanding tour schedule.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Historical Context and Stakes</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>England face a formidable challenge in Australia, having not secured an Ashes victory Down Under since the famous 2010-11 triumph. The previous series in England finished 2-2, maintaining Australia's hold on the urn and setting up this crucial contest.</p> <p>The five-Test series spans Australia's premier cricket venues, starting in Perth before moving to Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. Each venue presents unique challenges, from Perth's pace and bounce to the traditional Boxing Day atmosphere at the MCG.</p> <p>England's squad preparation includes white-ball fixtures in New Zealand, featuring three T20 internationals and three ODIs before the main event. This tour provides crucial match practice and acclimatisation ahead of the Ashes opener.</p> <p>The 16-man England squad represents a blend of experience and emerging talent, with established stars like Joe Root and newer faces like Jacob Bethell sharing squad duties. Wicket-keeper Jamie Smith retains his position following impressive performances throughout the English summer.</p> <h2>The Ashes 2025/26 Series Betting Odds:</h2>