Alex Carey will become Australia’s 461st men’s Test cricketer after being added to the 15-player Ashes squad as Tim Paine‘s replacement a week out from the first Test.
Carey had been in a race for Paine’s spot in the Australian XI alongside the likes of Josh Inglis and Matthew Wade, but his selection was confirmed in a Cricket Australia statement today.
While he is yet to make a Test appearance for Australia, Carey has been a regular in Australia’s limited overs sides over the last few years.
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“Alex has been a regular member of the national side in white ball cricket, particularly in the one-day game,” Australia’s chairman of selectors, George Bailey, said.
“He is an excellent cricketer and a fine individual who will bring many great strengths into the team. He will be a very deserved holder of baggy green cap number 461.”
“I am incredibly humbled by this opportunity. It’s an exciting build-up for what is a huge Series ahead,” Carey added.
“My focus is on preparing and playing my part in helping Australia secure the Ashes.
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“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.”
The 30-year-old had battled through a lean patch of form which saw him fail to pass double digits in six consecutive innings for South Australia before breaking out with a century against Queensland last weekend.