Australia have received a significant boost ahead of the third Test of the 2025–26 Ashes series, with captain Pat Cummins returning to the playing XI for the crucial pink-ball clash against England at the Adelaide Oval from December 17 to 21. The fast-bowling spearhead had missed the opening two Tests due to a bone stress injury, during which Steve Smith led the side. Cummins’ comeback adds experience, leadership, and bite to Australia’s pace attack as they look to tighten their grip on the series.

Veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon has also been recalled after sitting out the second Test in Brisbane. To make room for the returning duo, Australia have left out all-rounder Michael Neser and seamer Brendan Doggett. Neser was particularly unfortunate, having impressed with a five-wicket haul in the second innings at the Gabba, but team balance and conditions at Adelaide ultimately dictated the call.

Despite regaining fitness, Usman Khawaja continues to remain on the sidelines. The Australian team management has opted to persist with the opening combination of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald, backing continuity over experience. Addressing the tough selection calls, Cummins praised the attitude of the players who missed out, highlighting the strong culture within the squad.

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“He’s a real team man. He’ll do whatever the team needs. And it’s not only Uzzie — you’ve got Beau Webster missing out on these three Tests, Neser coming off a five-for, and Doggett who did really well in the first two Tests,” Pat Cummins said, as quoted by cricket.com.au. “There’s disappointment, but everyone has been fantastic around the group. You need a full squad effort to win an Ashes series.”

Cummins also made it clear that the door is far from closed for Khawaja, backing the experienced opener to force his way back into contention if required. “If we didn’t think he was good enough to come straight back in, he wouldn’t be here with the squad. He scores runs at the top and in the middle, and I can absolutely see a path back,” he added.

Meanwhile, England has also named their XI for the Adelaide Test, making a single change. Josh Tongue has replaced Gus Atkinson as Ben Stokes searches for answers with his team trailing 2–0 in the series. With England needing a win to stay alive, the Adelaide Test shapes up as a decisive moment in this Ashes battle.

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Australia XI: Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue