Australia captain Pat Cummins has returned to the Test squad for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide beginning December 17, marking his comeback after missing the first two matches due to a lumbar stress injury. His inclusion is the only change to the 15-man squad, with selectors signalling a shift back to a more traditional attack for the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval.
Cummins, who last played competitive cricket in July against West Indies, was close to featuring in the Brisbane Test after his recovery progressed faster than expected. However, he was held back to complete multiple match-simulation spells to ensure full readiness. “We feel he’ll be really well placed for the challenges of Adelaide,” head coach Andrew McDonald said.
Alongside Cummins, veteran spinner Nathan Lyon is also set for a return after being left out of the XI for the pink-ball Test in Brisbane, where Australia opted for an all-pace attack featuring Scott Boland, Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett.
Two pacers likely to be benched as Cummins–Lyon combination returns
With Cummins and Lyon both slotting back into the XI, Australia now face a selection squeeze. Two of Scott Boland, Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett are likely to be benched to restore balance to the attack. This comes despite Neser’s impressive five-wicket haul in the second innings at Brisbane. McDonald confirmed that the upcoming Test will feature the “best balanced and available attack,” and Cummins’ availability “creates a different balance,” making omissions inevitable.
On the batting front, Usman Khawaja is expected to be fit after recovering from a back injury. The veteran opener batted without discomfort in Brisbane and is likely to reclaim his spot, adding further complexity to selection discussions.
Australia currently lead the series 2–0 and will look to retain the Ashes next week in Adelaide. McDonald hinted that rotation is more likely later in the series, noting that Tests four and five may require management of workloads, but the Adelaide XI will be picked for maximum strength.
