Led by Joe Root, a part of the England squad arrived in Australia on November 6 a month ahead of the first Test. The series will mark the return of Ben Stokes, who took a break from international cricket in July. The England team underwent a fortnight-long quarantine, following which they will return to training.

They play England Lions in a three-day match in Brisbane from November 23-25, following it with another one starting November 30.

The first Test begins on December 8. Click here for the full schedule of the series.

The series will be part of the 2021-23 World Test Championship. England initially named a 17-member strong unit, but added Ben Stokes, who confirmed his availability for the contest. Jos Buttler is the vice-captain for the series.

England’s pace attack has a number of notable absentees due to injury. Jofra Archer, Olly Stone and Sam Curran are all out of contention, with Mark Wood the only out-and-out quick in the line-up.

Ahead of the Ashes, Tim Paine, Australia’s Test captain, stepped down from his role after the emergence of an off-field scandal. Pat Cummins is expected to be promoted to captaincy ahead of the contest.

Australia v England, Ashes 2021/22: Full England squad

Batters: Joe Root, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Dawid Malan, Ollie Pope

Wicketkeepers: Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow

All-rounders: Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes, Dom Bess

Bowlers: Craig Overton, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, Jack Leach, Stuart Broad, James Anderson