Cummins Returns to Lead Australia Squad for Third Test in Ashes Series
Pat Cummins has been named in Australia’s 15-man squad for the third Test against England — a move that signals his expected return to action in the series, after recovering from a back injury that kept him out of the first two matches.
Cummins, who sat out the victories in Perth and Brisbane, is now set to don the baggy green again when Australia face England at the Adelaide Oval from December 17. His inclusion injects experience and firepower back into a dominant Australian side that currently leads the series 2–0. Meanwhile, fellow frontline bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out for the remainder of the series with ongoing Achilles and hamstring issues.
Cummins Returns at a Critical Time
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Australia’s decision to bring Cummins back underscores how valuable the captain and pace spearhead is to the squad — especially with the series lead giving them the chance to seal the Ashes on home soil. According to head coach Andrew McDonald, Cummins has shown sufficient readiness in training and is physically prepared to resume bowling.
With Hazlewood unavailable, Cummins’s return restores balance and leadership to the pace attack. Veteran spinner Nathan Lyon is also back in contention after being dropped for the second Test, meaning selectors have real depth and variety to choose from.
A Blow for England and a Boost for Australia
For England, Cummins’s return spells trouble. They’ll now face a full-strength Australian attack — with left-arm pace, swing and seam movement back in play — just when they were hoping for some relief after a bruising start to the series.
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For Australia, it’s a chance to capitalise on momentum. With two victories already secured, they can aim to wrap up the series early. The psychological edge of having their regular skipper and strike bowler back cannot be overstated.
What’s Next
Attention now turns to team selection and the playing XI that Australia will send out in Adelaide. While Cummins is likely to lead the attack, players such as Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett — who filled in earlier — may lose their spots. The final eleven will be confirmed at the toss.
With Cummins fit and ready, Australia has the opportunity to turn a series lead into a commanding victory — and perhaps clinch the Ashes before the final Test.
