Australia captain Pat Cummins has been named in the 15-member squad for the third Ashes Test against England, signalling his long-awaited return to international cricket as the series moves to Adelaide.
The hosts currently lead the five-match ICC World Test Championship series 2-0, after dominant wins in Perth and Brisbane.
Cummins has not appeared for Australia since the third Test against the West Indies in July. The 32-year-old fast bowler had been recovering from a back injury but is now reportedly fit and expected to lead the side when the next Test begins on December 17, 2025.
Australia Squad Unchanged with Key Players Retained
The squad named on Wednesday features no major surprises. Senior batter Usman Khawaja remains part of the squad as he continues his comeback from injury. All-rounder Beau Webster and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, who were not selected for the second Test in Brisbane, have also been included and are pushing for places in the playing XI.
Coach Andrew McDonald suggested Cummins was close to playing in Brisbane and is now almost certain to take the field in Adelaide.
“He (Cummins) was well ahead of where we thought he’d be,” McDonald said.
“The simulation in the nets has got him skill-ready and his body looks prepared. Barring anything unexpected, I’d expect Pat to be tossing the coin in Adelaide.”
Jhye Richardson Also Joins the Squad
Pacer Jhye Richardson will join the Australian camp in Adelaide as he continues his recovery and aims for a return to the national side. Richardson recently played for a Cricket Australia XI and Australia A, strengthening his case for potential selection later in the series.
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.
Ashes 2025–26 Series Schedule
• 1st Test: Perth Stadium, Nov 21–22 – Australia won by 8 wickets
• 2nd Test: Gabba, Dec 4–7 – Australia won by 8 wickets
• 3rd Test: Adelaide Oval, Dec 17–21
• 4th Test: MCG, Dec 26–30
• 5th Test: SCG, Jan 4–8