Ashes 25/26: Australian Debutant Brendan Doggett Set to Shine in Perth Test vs England

Australian cricketer Brendan Doggett made his Test debut for Australia as they face England in the 2025/26 Ashes Test. Doggett is one of two debutants in Australia’s lineup at the Optus Stadium in Perth. He gets his first Baggy Green on the back of several strong performances in domestic cricket and in overseas competitions.

Brendan Doggett Bio

Why Did Australia Choose Doggett Ahead of Other Options?

Effective swing

Doggett delivers a remarkable drive in his swing, and can unsettle prolific hitters as an opening bowler. The player possesses immense bowling potential and can deliver in various match situations and match conditions.

Versatile wicket-taking potential

Brendan offers significant bowling power in different positions to deliver lethal balls against opposing batters. Doggett’s inclusion as an opener for South Australia is due to his wicket-taking power as an opener and in other positions with the ball.

Deep knowledge of local conditions

Doggett has several seasons of experience in domestic cricket with Queensland and South Australia. He played central roles in domestic cricket through balanced bowling attacks for respective teams.

Brett Lee Urges Australia to Hand Doggett New Ball Opportunities in Ashes

Former pacer Brett Lee believes Doggett will do well with the new ball as Australia face England at home. He encouraged Australia’s captain Steve Smith to allow the debutant open bowling alongside Mitchell Starc:  

“Maybe that’s the best thing for his nerves,” Brett said during an interview on November 20, 2025. “If they lose the toss and [get] to bowl first, then Steve Smith might go, ‘Alright mate, you haven’t got time to get the nerves. Take the brand new ball and shape a few away,’” Lee said.

Australia Skipper Impressed with Doggett, Justifies His Selection

Brendan’s inclusion in Australia’s Ashes squad meant Michael Neser had to step aside in the first Test. Team captain Steve Smith justified his side’s decision during a recent interview while pointing out Doggett’s impressive showing during pre-series training:

“He gets the ball down at nice pace, stands the seam up,” Smith said. “Hopefully, whenever we bowl, he can get the ball in the areas we know that he can. If he does that, I’m sure he’s going to create plenty of chances,” the skipper added.

Doggett Bags Wicket vs Harry Brook in Debut Test

The debutant’s first Test birthed a historic moment as he faced England’s vice-captain Harry Brook. Doggett ensured Harry inflicted no further damage with a remarkable bouncer. Brook walked off the pitch after a light appeal from Australia and confirmed Doggett’s scalp against the Englishman.

England’s vice skipper was on the hunt for a half-century after 58 balls before his dismissal. Australia’s debut bowler ended this session with a 2/27, a decent first outing by several standards.

Some Interesting Brendan Doggett Facts

Carpenter turned Test bowler

Brendan was not always on the radar of Cricket Australia (CA) selectors at the early stages of his career. He was once a carpenter while refusing to abandon his desire to become a professional cricketer.

Early inclusion did not materialise

This is the second time Doggett is getting a call-up to Australia’s Test team. He was billed to take part in a 2018 Test but failed to make an appearance during that encounter. However, the player finally earned a deserved appearance in Ashes action.

Knowledge of English conditions

Doggett signed a short-term contract with County cricket side Durham in 2025. His stint before the Ashes may give Brendan an advantage against English players in this series.  

Australia Playing XI for first 2025/26 Ashes Test

Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (w-k), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett

Full Ashes 2025/26 Schedule