The Ashes series had been in doubt<\/a> after both the ECB and its players voiced concerns over the restrictive health and travel protocols in Australia.<\/p>\n The big selection question fans were waiting on was the availability of all-rounder Ben Stokes<\/a>, who recently underwent a second operation on his finger<\/a>, while also taking time off due to mental health.<\/p>\n He wasn't named in the squad.<\/p>\n Fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Olly Stone were previously ruled out for selection due to injuries.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, all-rounder Sam Curran was also not considered due to a lower back injury.<\/p>\n "I am delighted that all of our available players have committed to the tour. This is why we play and coach to be involved in iconic series like this," said head coach and selector Chris Silverwood.<\/p>\n READ MORE:<\/strong> Details emerge of Cleary's link to alleged border breach trio<\/a><\/p>\n READ MORE:<\/strong> Ex-NRL star shines as St Helens win Super League GF<\/a><\/p>\n "More than half of our squad haven't featured in an Ashes tour before, which means we will be fresh and looking to embrace the cricket and the excitement of touring one of the best places in the world.<\/p>\n "I believe we have selected a well-balanced squad with options in all areas and a blend of youth and experience. There is real competition for places and a genuine desire to work hard and compete, aiming to create some history.<\/p>\n "We are under no illusions about how difficult the task is going to be. Australia have been strong at home in the past, and there is an expectation on them to win this series.<\/p>\n "However, from our point of view, there is genuine excitement and belief that we can do something special."<\/p>\n Joe Root (C)<\/p>\n James Anderson<\/p>\n Jonathan Bairstow<\/p>\n Dom Bess<\/p>\n Stuart Broad<\/p>\n Rory Burns<\/p>\n Jos Buttler<\/p>\n Zak Crawley<\/p>\n Haseeb Hameed<\/p>\n Dan Lawrence<\/p>\n Jack Leach<\/p>\n Dawid Malan<\/p>\n Craig Overton<\/p>\n Ollie Pope<\/p>\n Ollie Robinson<\/p>\n Chris Woakes<\/p>\n Mark Wood<\/p>\n For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by<\/em><\/strong> clicking here!<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<\/p>\n
England men's Test squad:<\/h3>\n