Image Source : Depositphotos
Pat Cummins has been added to the team for the Adelaide Test
3rd Test: Pat Cummins has been added to the team for the Adelaide Test
Ashes 2025: Australia captain Pat Cummins has returned to the squad for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, starting December 17. He is the only new player added to the 15-man group.
Cummins missed the first two Tests because of a back stress injury and hasn’t played since the West Indies series in July. He was almost picked for the Gabba Test last week, but instead, he bowled long spells in practice to get ready for Adelaide.
Coach Andrew McDonald said:
“He’s ahead of schedule, and that gave us a real discussion for Brisbane. But now we feel he’s ready for Adelaide. His body is good, and his skills are sharp. Unless something changes, I expect him to lead the team in Adelaide.”
Meanwhile, Usman Khawaja stays in the squad despite missing games in Perth and Brisbane due to his own back injury. McDonald confirmed Khawaja trained well in the nets and should be fit to play. He added that Khawaja can open the batting but also has the flexibility to bat in other positions.
Australia will face tough choices in team selection. With Nathan Lyon also set to return, two of Scott Boland, Michael Neser, or Brendan Doggett may miss out. Khawaja’s inclusion also creates decisions for the batting order.
McDonald explained that the team planned the schedule carefully, so the Adelaide Test will feature the best available attack. Resting players is more likely in the Melbourne and Sydney Tests later.
Australia currently leads the Ashes 2-0 with three matches left and will aim to retain the urn at Adelaide Oval.