Matthew Potts Set for Ashes Debut as England Battle Injury Crisis in Sydney

5 January 2026 Sport

England Turns to Matthew Potts Amid Injury Concerns

English cricket fans have a new face to watch as Matthew Potts has been added to England’s squad for the final Ashes Test in Sydney. The Durham seamer, who has been an unused member of the touring party throughout the series, is poised for an 11th Test cap after Gus Atkinson was ruled out with a hamstring injury picked up in the fourth Test. This selection comes at a critical moment as England are dealing with the absence of several key fast bowlers, including Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Gus Atkinson.

Potts’ Path to Selection

Potts has played 10 Tests, with his last appearance occurring in New Zealand at the end of 2024. The 27-year-old seamer brings solid credentials to the role, with 36 wickets at 29.44 in his Test career. All Potts’ Test appearances have come since Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum took the reins at the start of the 2022 summer, with the seamer taking 20 wickets at an average of 28 in his first five Tests.

Team Support and Strategic Importance

Potts has received strong endorsement from his teammates. England opener Zak Crawley praised the bowler, stating: “Every time I face him he impresses me. He’s got the heart of a lion, a lot of skill, and if he gets the nod this week, he thoroughly deserves it.” The 27-year-old could take the new ball at the SCG, having opened the bowling routinely at Durham, in a move that would allow Brydon Carse to return to a more familiar first-change role.

Looking Ahead

While the Ashes are gone, this final Test represents more than just a consolation match. The final Test offers Potts an opportunity to stake his claim for a regular spot ahead of a busy year of international cricket. For England, successfully deploying Potts could prove crucial in managing their depleted bowling resources and building momentum for future series. The Sydney Test provides the Durham seamer with a platform to demonstrate his value to the national setup during challenging circumstances.