Australia’s regular captain Pat Cummins was named in the squad for the third Ashes test against England on Wednesday. His inclusion indicates he is likely to play his first match of the series in Adelaide next week. Cummins has been struggling with a back problem. He missed Australia’s eight-wicket wins in Perth and Brisbane. Those victories have given the hosts a 2-0 lead in the series.
Coach Andrew McDonald said Cummins is ready both physically and skill-wise for the upcoming test. He praised the bowler’s training in the nets as a good simulation for match conditions. McDonald added that unless anything unexpected happens, Cummins would lead the team onto the field and toss the coin. The coach expressed confidence in the bowler’s readiness.
Josh Hazlewood, who usually forms part of Australia’s pace attack with Cummins and Mitchell Starc, was absent from the squad. He was ruled out for the rest of the series due to Achilles and hamstring injuries. The team announced he would instead focus on preparing for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup early next year in India and Sri Lanka.
Pace bowler Michael Neser retains his spot in the squad after being called up as an injury replacement. He played in Brisbane, replacing spinner Nathan Lyon, and took five wickets for 42 runs in the second innings at the Gabba. Despite this performance, Neser may not play in Adelaide. Cummins and Lyon are expected to return to the playing XI.
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Brendan Doggett, who debuted in the series opener in Perth, also looks likely to make way for Cummins and Lyon. Australia aims to secure the series with two matches remaining. Neser and Doggett’s inclusion in earlier matches provided depth while key players recovered from injuries.
Usman Khawaja retained his spot in the 15-man squad despite missing the Brisbane test due to a back problem. He will join Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Jake Weatherald, and Beau Webster in the squad. Scott Boland, Alex Carey, and Nathan Lyon are also included.
The complete 15-man squad for the third Ashes test is: 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. Australia hopes Cummins’ return strengthens their chance to win the series.