Alex Carey, who is set to replace former Test captain Tim Paine in Australia’s Ashes team, said he was speechless on hearing about his selection. The wicket-keeper batsman will make his Test debut at Gabba when the Aussies lock horns against Joe Root’s England in the first game of the five-match series, starting December 8.

Australia confirmed their 15-man squad for the first two Tests of the upcoming Ashes. Carey was included ahead of Josh Inglis. The 30-year-old, in a video posted by cricket.com.au, revealed how his parent and wife reacted to him getting a place in the playing XI. 

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Carey has more than 80 appearances for Australia in limited-overs cricket. He said, “I’ve got an incredibly close family, so for my Mum and Dad to hear the news, they were in tears straightway. A very supportive wife in Eloise who was again in tears – brother, sister and then friends.”

“I’m really fortunate with the support I’ve got around me, with my really close family, my friends, all mates at the SACA (Southern Australia Cricket Association). The phone started to blow up a little bit this morning which is nice, so definitely feeling the love,” he added.

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Making the announcement, Australian Chairman of Selectors, George Bailey said,” Alex has been a regular member of the national side in white ball cricket, particularly in the one-day game. He is an excellent cricketer and a fine individual who will bring many great strengths into the team.”

Australia squad for 1st and 2nd Test: Pat Cummins (C), Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith (VC), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner