Pat Cummins Back in Australia Squad for Third Ashes Test

Published: 10 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Australia have named their squad for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, signalling a significant return for captain Pat Cummins. The announcement also confirmed veteran Usman Khawaja remains in contention after missing the second Test due to a back injury, keeping the door open for his continued international career.

Khawaja, who struggled in Perth during the series opener, was left out of the Brisbane XI, giving new opener Jake Weatherald a breakthrough performance, scoring his maiden half-century at the Gabba. Despite this, selectors have retained Khawaja in the 15-player squad for the Adelaide clash beginning 17 December, reflecting his experience and potential contribution lower in the order.

Travis Head’s strong performances alongside Weatherald make Khawaja’s return at the top of the order unlikely, though his adaptability could still secure him a spot in the middle order. The Australian batting lineup, anchored by Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith at Nos 3 and 4, remains subject to strategic considerations as the team looks to seal the series on home soil.

In Brisbane, Cameron Green batted at No 5, followed by wicketkeeper Alex Carey and Josh Inglis. Inglis made a brief impact, scoring 23 in the first innings and executing a remarkable run-out, though he otherwise played a minor role. All-rounder Beau Webster is also vying for a place in the middle order, offering both batting depth and a bowling option. His inclusion could be strategic, especially with concerns over Cummins’ workload or any niggles affecting frontline bowlers like Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland.

Carey, reflecting on the team’s start to the series, noted, “To come into Adelaide 2-0 is a good position, but the series is definitely not over, and we understand that. England remain a very good cricket team.” He referenced the 2023 Ashes in England, where Australia led after two Tests but ultimately drew the series 2-2, highlighting the importance of maintaining consistency and focus.

The squad selection is also shaped by the anticipated return of off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who was omitted from Brisbane’s team for the first time in 13 years for a home Test. Fringe fast bowlers Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser, who impressed in Brisbane, may lose their places with Cummins’ return and Lyon’s inclusion, emphasizing the selectors’ preference for experience in the pivotal Adelaide encounter.

Josh Hazlewood, absent from the first two Tests due to a hamstring injury, has been ruled out for the series after a setback affecting his calf. Cummins, however, who last played against the West Indies in July, is expected to return as captain following a lower back issue, offering stability and leadership. Carey added, “It looks like he’s moving really well. He’s been around the group the whole time with lots of energy,” underscoring Cummins’ readiness to lead.

Fast bowler Jhye Richardson will continue training with the squad in Adelaide as he recovers from shoulder surgery in January, keeping him on track for future selection. Australia’s 15-player squad reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent, aiming to maintain momentum and secure a series win before the Ashes shift overseas.

The confirmed Australian squad for the third Ashes Test 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. The team’s focus in Adelaide will be on consolidating their lead, managing workloads, and executing a performance that could prove decisive for the series outcome.