Steve Smith added to Australian Ashes squad

All-rounder Steve Smith has been added to the Australia squad for the Ashes, beginning July 10.

Commenting on the decision, National Selector John Inverarity said: "Steve Smith has been added to the Australian Ashes squad until the beginning of the second Test when it will be reviewed. Given David Warner is unavailable for the upcoming tour games against Somerset and Worcestershire and while Michael Clarke continues to make good progress from a back injury, we feel further batting cover is required."

"Ashton Agar is to accompany the Ashes squad until the beginning of the second Test as a development player. This will be similar to the situation when Mitchell Starc accompanied the ODI, T20 and Test Squads on the tour to West Indies in 2012 as a development player."

"Fawad Ahmed will return to Australia tomorrow (Monday) while he goes through the processes required of him to become an Australian citizen and remains a player of interest to the National Selection Panel."

Australia will play tour matches against Somerset (June 26-29) and Worcestershire (July 2-5) before taking on England in the first Test starting July 10 at Nottingham.