Pat Cummins returns to Australia squad ahead of third Ashes Test against England in Adelaide, Usman Khawaja also in frame
Published 10/12/2025 at 08:38 GMT
React to this story
Australia captain Pat Cummins is set to return for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide after recovering from a back issue. He missed the first two wins over England but is set to lead a side needing only a draw to retain the urn, live on TNT Sports and discovery+. Elsewhere, Usman Khawaja pushes for selection, while Michael Neser stays in the squad after taking 5–42 at the Gabba.
England v Australia Ashes highlights: Stokes' troops fall 2-0 behind in series
Video credit: TNT Sports
Australia skipper Pat Cummins will return for the third NRMA Insurance men’s Ashes Test against England in Adelaide.Â
The fast bowler last played for Australia in July because of a lower back problem, but has trained around the Ashes squad for the first two Tests.Â
Cummins, who has been named Australia’s captain, missed the eight-wicket victories over England in Perth and Brisbane, but will be looking to clinch the series at the Adelaide Oval from December 17, live on TNT Sports and discovery+.Â
Australia need a draw to retain the Ashes, while a win will seal overall victory in the five-Test series.Â
On Cummins’ return, Australia coach Andrew McDonald said: "We feel as though he'll be as best prepared as can be.
"We feel as though the simulation in the nets has got him skill-ready. His body's ready to go.
/origin-imgresizer.tntsports.io/2025/12/08/image-60e266a0-5e8e-46dc-8fd9-649b47669d98-85-2560-1440.jpeg)
'He's had enough' - Cook predicts Stokes will deliver 'some home truths' after second Test defeat
Video credit: TNT Sports
"Barring anything else happening in the next week, I'd be expecting Pat to be tossing the coin and putting the blazer on."
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper Alex Carey said: "He looks like he's moving really well, you've probably seen that in the nets.
"He's been around the group the whole time, with lots of energy, so if he is available, no doubt the selectors will put him in."
Cummins is the only new addition to Australia’s 15-man squad, with veteran Usman Khawaja also in the frame for selection.Â
- Prior: Stokes suffering without 'lieutenants' in his England side
- Watch Archer-Smith feud: 'Bowl fast when there's nothing going on, champion'
- England hammered at the Gabba - reaction and clips as Stokes fumes
Khawaja was left out of the second Test XI after picking up a back injury in the series opener in Perth, with his understudy Jake Weatherald stepping up to claim a half-century at the Gabba.
Meanwhile, pace bowler Michael Neser has retained his spot in the squad after coming into the team as an injury replacement and claiming 5-42 in the second innings at the Gabba.
Australia’s squad for Ashes third Test
Pat Cummins (captain), Steve Smith, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.
Watch every ball of the 2025/26 Ashes live on TNT Sports and discovery+
Advertisement
Advertisement