Ashes 2025: Pat Cummins Returns, Australia’s Big Boost for Adelaide Test

The return of Pat Cummins is the main feature of Australia's 15-man lineup for the third Test of the Ashes 2025–2026.

Cummins missed the first two Test matches (in Perth and Brisbane) because of a lower-back stress ailment that has kept him out of action since July.

Still, Australia's management feels he is fit and prepared for the Adelaide challenge after a gradual recovery and a regulated rehabilitation program that included simulated match-scenario bowling sessions.
 

Why His Return Matters

Experience & Leadership: Cummins is the captain in addition to being a front-line fast bowler. Before the pink-ball Test at the Adelaide Oval beginning on December 17, his return restores Australia's preferred leadership structure, providing the squad with both tactical support and a lift in morale.

Restoring Bowling Balance: With current quicks like Scott Boland, Mitchell Starc, and others performing well, Cummins' accession expands and fortifies the pace attack. Furthermore, Cummins' comeback becomes even more crucial because fellow seamer Josh Hazlewood will miss the rest of the series owing to injury.

Selectors' Confidence Signal: Australia thinks highly of Cummins' match-readiness, as shown by the fact that he is the sole change in an otherwise mostly unchanged lineup. According to head coach Andrew McDonald, Cummins was "as prepared as can be" and had made good progress in his recovery.

The 3rd test will be played on 17 December at Adelaide Oval, Australia. 

Australia Squad for the 3rd 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

 

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