Adelaide, 10 December (H.S.): Australia captain Pat Cummins has been recalled to the national squad for the third Ashes Test against England, set to begin on December 17 at the Adelaide Oval. Cricket Australia announced a 15-member squad on Tuesday, with Cummins’ return being the only change from the previous lineup.

Cummins missed the first two Tests of the series due to a lower back stress injury. His last competitive appearance came in July against the West Indies at Sabina Park. The 38-year-old pacer was reportedly close to selection for the Brisbane Test last week after recovering faster than expected, but the management decided to give him additional time to regain full match readiness through simulated practice spells.

Head coach Andrew McDonald said, “Pat was further ahead in recovery than we expected, and his inclusion for the Brisbane Test was seriously considered. We now believe he’s fully ready for the challenge in Adelaide. His bowling rhythm looks excellent in simulation sessions, and his body is fit to go. Unless something unforeseen arises, I expect Pat to walk out for the toss and wear the blazer next week.”

Meanwhile, opener Usman Khawaja has retained his place despite missing the Brisbane Test due to a back injury and failing to make an impact in Perth. McDonald confirmed that Khawaja batted well in recent net sessions and is expected to be fully fit ahead of the next match. “Uzzie should be available. Although he usually opens, he has the versatility to play elsewhere in the order. We believe all our batters can adapt to different positions as needed,” McDonald added.

Veteran spinner Nathan Lyon is also likely to return for the Adelaide Test, potentially posing selection challenges for the management. Among the pacers, two out of Scott Boland, Michael Neser, and Brendan Doggett could make way for the returning players. Khawaja’s fitness may further influence the team’s batting order.

McDonald also noted that player workload management will come into consideration later in the series. “The gap between Perth, Brisbane, and now Adelaide has been manageable, so we’re likely to field our most balanced and available bowling attack. Rest rotations might be an option only for the fourth and fifth Tests in Melbourne and Sydney,” he said.

Australia currently lead the Ashes series 2–0 after convincing victories in Perth and Brisbane. With three matches remaining, the team will take the field in Adelaide next week aiming to retain the Ashes.

Australia’s squad for the third Ashes Test:

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, Beau Webster.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar