Tom Westley: Essex batsman overlooked for England's Ashes squad

Tom Westley failed to impress for England against South Africa and The Windies this summer. Credit: PA

Essex batsman Tom Westley has been left out of England's 16-man Ashes Test squad for their upcoming tour of Australia.

The 28-year-old averaged just 24 for England in five tests this summer after being brought in at number three.

Despite a slow start to his international career, Westley was hoping that he'd done enough to keep his place but the selectors have opted for Hampshire's James Vince instead.

Alastair Cook has been picked for another Ashes series Down Under. Credit: PA

“The selectors are backing James Vince to make an impact on his recall to the Test squad," National Selector James Whitaker said.

"He is a quality strokeplayer and we believe his game will suit the Australian pitches.

"His understanding of the England set-up will help him settle into the environment quickly and hit the ground running when we arrive in Perth next month.”

As expected, Essex teammate Alastair Cook does make the cut where he is likely to be partnered by Mark Stoneman at the top of the order.

Elsewhere, three uncapped players have been selected with Somerset's Craig Overton, former Essex wicketkeeper Ben Foakes and Hampshire's Mason Crane all earning call-ups.

Vice-captain Ben Stokes has also been included, despite his arrest in Bristol earlier this week, while Yorkshire's Gary Ballance has been recalled.

England won the last Ashes series in 2015. Credit: PA

The first Test will take place in Brisbane on November 23, while the fifth and final Test has been pencilled in for January 4 in Sydney.

  • England squad to tour Australia

Joe Root (capt), Alastair Cook, Mark Stoneman, Dawid Malan, Gary Ballance, James Vince, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Ben Foakes (wk), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Jake Ball, Mason Crane, Craig Overton.