Sports presenter Grace Hayden has weighed in on the ongoing Ashes contest, backing Australia to complete a dominant series win over arch-rivals England.
Grace Hayden makes a bold prediction for the Ashes
With Australia holding a commanding 2-0 lead, Grace did not shy away from expressing her excitement and confidence in the side’s prospects. During a chat with the broadcasters of ILT20, Matthew Hayden’s daughter admitted she is “so stoked for the Aussies,” reflecting the upbeat mood among Australian supporters watching their team dictate terms early in the series.
Grace framed her prediction as part of the team’s identity and culture, noting that this is “just how we roll” when it comes to big-ticket showdowns like the Ashes. The remark underlines the aura Australia traditionally carries in multi-Test battles, especially when they seize an early advantage. With the hosts already 2-0 up in the five-match series, her assessment taps into a long-standing narrative of Australian ruthlessness once they get on top.
Looking ahead to the remaining Tests, Hayden hinted at hopes of a near-perfect outcome for the home side. She expressed her wish that the rest of the series becomes “just a watch of the Aussies taking it all out,” effectively predicting Australia to shut England out and complete the job in emphatic fashion.
Pat Cummins set to lead Australia’s Test squad again
Pat Cummins is poised to reclaim the captaincy of the Australian Test team for the upcoming third Ashes match against England in Adelaide. Cricket Australia has officially confirmed his inclusion in the 15-man squad for the encounter at the Adelaide Oval, scheduled to begin on December 17. This marks his return to leadership duties, relieving vice-captain Steve Smith, who successfully guided the team in Cummins’ absence.
The premier fast bowler had been sidelined for the first two Tests of the 2025-26 series due to a back injury. During this interim period, Smith marshalled the side to consecutive eight-wicket victories. However, following a rigorous rehabilitation process, team medical staff and head coach Andrew McDonald have cleared Cummins for play. They noted that his recovery exceeded expectations, revealing he was nearly available for the previous Brisbane Test but was rested as a precautionary measure.
Cummins’ return stands as the sole alteration to the squad that has dominated the series thus far.
