Pat Cummins Set to Lead Australia’s Attack in Adelaide Test, Squad Revealed

Ashes 2025: Pat Cummins Back as Australia Announce 15-Man Squad for Adelaide Test.

Australia have welcomed a major boost with the return of Pat Cummins for the third Ashes Test at Adelaide, starting December 17. The fast bowler, recovering from a lower-back stress injury sustained in July, is the only change to a largely settled 15-man squad named by Cricket Australia for the day-night clash.

Cummins missed the first two Tests but saw Australia storm to a 2-0 lead with commanding wins in Perth and Brisbane. His return strengthens the team’s attack and restores the preferred balance of three frontline pacers supported by a specialist spinner.

The 32-year-old hasn’t played since the third Test against the West Indies at Sabina Park, but strong training sessions and match simulations convinced the staff that he is “as prepared as he can be” for Adelaide. Usman Khawaja remains in the squad as he continues his recovery, while all-rounder Beau Webster and off-spinner Nathan Lyon return after missing the second Test, offering depth and flexibility for pink-ball conditions.

Despite Josh Hazlewood being ruled out, Australia’s pace attack — including Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Michael Neser — remains formidable. For England, already reeling from two heavy defeats, a fully fit Cummins under lights at Adelaide Oval presents an added challenge.

Australia squad for the third 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