Pat Cummins has been named in the Australia squad for the third Ashes Test against England, signaling his return after missing the first two matches due to a back issue. The upcoming clash at the Adelaide Oval is set for December 17, and his presence aims to bolster Australia’s current 2-0 series lead.
Cummins has been recuperating from his injury but is reported to be in good form ahead of the Test. Australia’s coach, Andrew McDonald, expressed confidence in his readiness, highlighting that practice sessions have prepared him well. McDonald stated, “We feel as though he’ll be as best prepared as can be,” stressing that Cummins is physically ready to go.
Josh Hazlewood, a key member of the Australian bowling unit, will not participate as he has been ruled out for the rest of the series due to Achilles and hamstring injuries. The team confirmed Hazlewood would shift focus to his rehabilitation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup scheduled for early next year in India and Sri Lanka.
Michael Neser, who joined the team as an injury replacement, is expected to retain his spot after performing admirably in Brisbane, where he took five wickets for 42 runs in the second innings. However, with Cummins and Nathan Lyon likely to return, Neser may not have the opportunity to play in Adelaide.
Brendan Doggett, who made his Test debut in the series opener, is also expected to make way for the returning players. Australia aims to secure the series with two matches remaining, and the lineup adjustments will be critical in achieving that goal.
Despite his previous injury, opener Usman Khawaja has kept his place in the squad, having been left out of the Brisbane Test. The anticipation builds as fans look forward to Cummins leading the team once more in a vital match against England.
The full squad includes: Pat Cummins (captain), 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, and Beau Webster.