Australia have received a major boost ahead of next month’s two-Test series against Bangladesh, with captain Pat Cummins, premier fast bowler Josh Hazlewood and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon all returning to the national squad after recovering from injuries. Cricket Australia announced a 13-member squad on Tuesday for the series, which begins on August 13 and will be played in Darwin and Mackay.

The return of the experienced trio significantly strengthens Australia’s bowling attack after all three spent lengthy periods on the sidelines over the past year. While Michael Neser has missed out on selection, Scott Boland has retained his place as Australia’s fourth specialist pace option.

Hazlewood, 35, has not played a Test since July 2025 after injuries ruled him out of both the Ashes and the subsequent T20 World Cup in India. Cummins has also been absent from international cricket since the third Ashes Test against England in Adelaide in December 2025 after suffering a back stress injury. Lyon, meanwhile, tore his hamstring during the same Adelaide Test and later underwent surgery, forcing the veteran off-spinner into a lengthy rehabilitation.

WATCH – Mohammad Kaif Defends Rohit Sharma, Slams Critics Over Retirement Debate

Cricket Australia chairman of selectors George Bailey praised the trio for their commitment during recovery and expressed confidence in their return ahead of the Bangladesh series. “They have worked extremely hard, individually and with the sports science teams over the past few months to return from their respective injuries,” Bailey said. 

He also revealed that while Australia have named a 13-player squad, additional players remain on standby should any late changes become necessary before the opening Test.

With a packed international calendar ahead, Australia are expected to carefully manage the workloads of Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon. The reigning World Test Championship holders could play as many as 21 Test matches over the next 12 months if they qualify for another WTC final, making player management a key priority.

The Bangladesh series will also mark Australia’s first Test assignment since veteran opener Usman Khawaja retired following the team’s 4-1 Ashes triumph earlier this year. His retirement leaves a crucial vacancy at the top of the order alongside Travis Head.

ALSO READ: Shubman Gill Reveals Why Kuldeep Yadav Was Left Out Of India’s Playing XI

Jake Weatherald is among the leading candidates to replace Khawaja, while Cameron Green or Marnus Labuschagne are also in contention for a reshuffled batting order.

Australia Test squad: Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald and Beau Webster.