Australia's Test Squad Update: Cummins and Lyon Return for Crucial Ashes Clash

Australia's Lineup for the Third Ashes Test

Adelaide [Australia], December 16: The Australian Test team has announced the return of captain Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon for the upcoming third Ashes Test against England, as pacers Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser have been left out. The team is eager to secure the Ashes series in Adelaide, as confirmed on the ICC website.

Notably, seasoned opener Usman Khawaja will not be part of the playing XI, while reserve batsman Josh Inglis retains his position and is expected to bat at No. 7 against England at the Adelaide Oval.

Cummins acknowledged Khawaja's disappointment at not being selected, especially with Australia leading the series 2-0, but commended his positive reaction to the decision.

“He’s a true team player. He’s willing to do whatever is necessary for the team. It’s not just Uzzie (Usman Khawaja); Beau Webster has also missed out on these three Tests. Neser recently took five wickets, and Doggett performed well in the first two Tests. There’s a sense of disappointment among these players, but they have all been fantastic in supporting the group. Winning an Ashes series requires a strong squad, and they’ve all been exceptional,” Cummins stated on Tuesday, according to the ICC website.

This match will mark Cummins' first Test since facing the West Indies earlier this year. The right-arm fast bowler confirmed he is fully fit and ready to take on his usual workload without restrictions.

“I’m ready to go. I’ve been bowling at full intensity for some time now. If I had played in Brisbane, I might have had some limitations, but this week, it’s just about playing like any other Test match,” Cummins added.

Australia's XI for the third Ashes Test includes:

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