Pat Cummins Returns as Australia Announce Squad for Third Ashes Test in Adelaide
Cricket Australia has confirmed a 15-man squad for the third Test of the 2025/26 Ashes series, scheduled to begin on December 17 at the Adelaide Oval. The only change to the squad is the return of captain Pat Cummins , who is set to resume leadership duties after recovering from a lumbar stress injury.
Cummins’ selection marks his first involvement in the series since the tour of the West Indies in July. Team management, including head coach Andrew McDonald, indicated that Cummins has made strong progress in training nets and simulated match workloads, convincing them he is ready for full Test-match intensity.
The rest of the squad remains largely unchanged from the Brisbane team that clinched a commanding eight-wicket win to take a 2-0 series lead. The 15-man roster includes big names such as Mitchell Starc , Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Travis Head.
Beau Webster and Nathan Lyon have been named in the 15-man group despite missing the second Test in Brisbane, where Australia secured an eight-wicket win. The duo are now in contention for a recall alongside Pat Cummins for the Adelaide clash.
With pace spearheads Cummins and Starc, supported by bowlers like Scott Boland and Michael Neser, Australia restores their preferred balance ahead of the crucial Adelaide Test. The management has also hinted at possible recall of all-round options such as Beau Webster to provide additional depth.
Cummins’ comeback is more than just a boost for Australia’s bowling attack, it’s a psychological shot in the arm. As captain and strike bowler, his presence lifts experience, leadership and match-winning ability. With Australia already 2-0 up, a win or even a draw in Adelaide would see them retain the Ashes urn.
For England, the return of Cummins and possible inclusion of Lyon present renewed danger. Having failed to respond in the first two Tests, the visitors now face a fully-loaded Australian side on a home wicket and under lights a challenging scenario to reverse momentum.
Squad for Third Ashes Test (Adelaide Oval, Dec 17-21, 2025):
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. Cummins’ inclusion marks the only change from the Gabba-winning XI.
With both Cummins and Lyon available, selectors face a choice between a seam-heavy attack or including spin via Lyon. Usman Khawaja’s spot at the top remains uncertain; the in-form opening pair of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald may continue unless pitch conditions or red-ball strategy demand change. With a 2-0 lead, Australia has a strong chance to seal the Ashes trophy in Adelaide. Cummins’ return adds a fresh edge to that ambition.
Cummins’ selection marks his first involvement in the series since the tour of the West Indies in July. Team management, including head coach Andrew McDonald, indicated that Cummins has made strong progress in training nets and simulated match workloads, convincing them he is ready for full Test-match intensity.
The rest of the squad remains largely unchanged from the Brisbane team that clinched a commanding eight-wicket win to take a 2-0 series lead. The 15-man roster includes big names such as Mitchell Starc , Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Travis Head.
Beau Webster and Nathan Lyon have been named in the 15-man group despite missing the second Test in Brisbane, where Australia secured an eight-wicket win. The duo are now in contention for a recall alongside Pat Cummins for the Adelaide clash.
With pace spearheads Cummins and Starc, supported by bowlers like Scott Boland and Michael Neser, Australia restores their preferred balance ahead of the crucial Adelaide Test. The management has also hinted at possible recall of all-round options such as Beau Webster to provide additional depth.
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Cummins’ comeback is more than just a boost for Australia’s bowling attack, it’s a psychological shot in the arm. As captain and strike bowler, his presence lifts experience, leadership and match-winning ability. With Australia already 2-0 up, a win or even a draw in Adelaide would see them retain the Ashes urn.
For England, the return of Cummins and possible inclusion of Lyon present renewed danger. Having failed to respond in the first two Tests, the visitors now face a fully-loaded Australian side on a home wicket and under lights a challenging scenario to reverse momentum.
Squad for Third Ashes Test (Adelaide Oval, Dec 17-21, 2025):
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. Cummins’ inclusion marks the only change from the Gabba-winning XI.
With both Cummins and Lyon available, selectors face a choice between a seam-heavy attack or including spin via Lyon. Usman Khawaja’s spot at the top remains uncertain; the in-form opening pair of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald may continue unless pitch conditions or red-ball strategy demand change. With a 2-0 lead, Australia has a strong chance to seal the Ashes trophy in Adelaide. Cummins’ return adds a fresh edge to that ambition.
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