Australia have received a major boost ahead of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, with skipper Pat Cummins returning to the squad and reclaiming the captaincy from Steve Smith, who led the side superbly to a 2–0 series lead.
Cricket Australia on Wednesday named a 15-member squad for the December 17 Test at the Adelaide Oval, with Cummins being the only addition to the group. The fast bowler had missed the opening two matches due to a lumbar stress injury and has not played competitive cricket since July, when he featured in the third Test against West Indies in Sabina Park.
Cummins Ahead of Schedule
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald revealed that Cummins’ progress was quicker than expected, sparking genuine consideration for his inclusion in last week’s Gabba Test.
“He was well ahead of where we thought he’d be, and it created a real live conversation for Brisbane,” McDonald said. “We feel he’s now in a great position for Adelaide. The simulation work in the nets has got him skill-ready and his body’s good to go. Barring anything unforeseen, I’d expect Pat to be tossing the coin next week.”
Cummins reportedly bowled multiple match-simulation spells to ensure full readiness.
Khawaja Retains Spot
Despite missing the Gabba Test with a back concern, Usman Khawaja keeps his place in the squad. McDonald said the veteran opener trained well in Brisbane and is expected to be fit for selection.
“Uz should be fully available,” he confirmed. “He has flexibility in the batting order, like all our players.”
Selection Dilemmas Ahead
The return of Cummins and frontline spinner Nathan Lyon is likely to prompt tough selection calls. The pace trio of Scott Boland, Michael Neser, and Brendan Doggett could see two miss out, depending on conditions and team balance.
“With the gaps between Tests manageable, we’ll likely field our best available attack in Adelaide,” McDonald added. “Resting becomes more of a conversation for the Melbourne and Sydney Tests.”
Australia Eye the Urn
Holding a commanding 2–0 lead in the five-match series, Australia head to Adelaide with a chance to retain the Ashes next week.
Australia Squad for Third 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.
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