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In preparation for the highly anticipated fifth and final Ashes 2023 Test against Australia, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have revealed their men’s playing XI. The decisive Test is set to kick off on Thursday, July 27, at the historic Kennington Oval in London.
England have opted for consistency, naming an unchanged XI for the crucial encounter. Senior pace veteran James Anderson, who celebrates his 41st birthday on Sunday, retains his place in the team. Throughout the summer series, Anderson has not delivered an impressive performance, claiming only four wickets in three Tests at an average of 76.75. In the recent match at Emirates Old Trafford, Anderson recorded match figures of 1/81 from 37 overs.
Alongside Anderson, his long-standing partner-in-crime, Stuart Broad, also finds himself in the unchanged lineup. Broad’s inclusion in the playing XI ensures that he will be the sole England seamer to participate in all five Ashes Tests, an accomplishment noteworthy at the age of 37.
England’s bowling attack will be further bolstered by the fitness declarations of Chris Woakes and Mark Wood. Both players have been given the green light to take part in their third consecutive Tests, having been instrumental in England’s triumph at Headingley.
The upcoming fifth Test holds immense significance as the Aussies currently lead the 5-match series 2-1. For England, a victory in this match is imperative to level the series. Notably, the recently concluded fourth Test ended in a draw, allowing Australia to retain the Ashes for the 2023 edition.
England’s playing XI for the fifth Ashes 2023 Test against Australia:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Moeen Ali, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, Mark Wood, James Anderson
