Australia have strengthened their formidable Ashes campaign with the return of captain Pat Cummins, naming him in a 15-member squad for the third Test in Adelaide beginning December 17. Cummins’ comeback marks the only change to the group, but it brings significant implications for team balance as the hosts eye sealing the Ashes with a commanding 2–0 lead already in hand.
Pat Cummins back after lengthy injury layoff
After weeks on the sidelines, Cummins is finally set to don the Baggy Green again. The fast bowler had missed the opening two Tests due to a lumbar stress injury that had kept him out of competitive cricket since Australia’s tour of the West Indies in July. Although he pushed for selection at the Gabba, team management preferred caution, allowing him additional time to regain rhythm and workload through extended match-simulation spells.
His return now provides Australia with both leadership stability and a strengthening of their pace artillery—an area that has functioned well but will only benefit further with Cummins’ control and strike power.
Usman Khawaja keeps his place amid batting uncertainties
Experienced opener Usman Khawaja, who has had a restricted role so far in the series due to back trouble, also keeps his place. Khawaja did not feature in Perth and was unavailable for the second Test at Brisbane, but selectors remain confident in his value at the top of the order. His inclusion, however, raises selection puzzles, especially with Jake Weatherald and Beau Webster also part of the extended squad.
The decision on whether Khawaja returns to the XI—or whether Australia persist with their temporary combinations—could significantly influence the team’s structure heading into a decisive Test.
Bowling conundrum after duo’s return
With both Cummins and veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon are back into the playing XI, Australia face some difficult choices in the pace department. Scott Boland, Michael Neser, and Brendan Doggett have all contributed as rotational options, but at least two of them may be pushed out of contention for the Adelaide Test. Lyon’s comeback, in particular, adds a layer of complexity, as the Adelaide Oval often rewards spin, especially in day-night conditions. His presence alongside Cummins and Mitchell Starc may narrow the available seam-bowling spots even further.
Holding a commanding 2–0 advantage with three Tests remaining, Australia are perfectly positioned to retain the Ashes on home soil once again. A victory in Adelaide would wrap up the urn early, allowing the hosts to play the final two matches with freedom.
With Cummins’ leadership and experience back at the helm, the Australian camp will feel even more confident about extending their dominance over England in what has already been a compelling series.
Australia squad for third Ashes Test
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
