Cummins set to return as Australia announce squad for third Ashes Test; Paceman Hazlewood ruled out of series

Regular captain Pat Cummins has been named in Australia’s squad for the third Ashes Test, signalling his expected return after missing the previous two matches. His comeback arrives at a crucial point in the series, with Australia holding a 2-0 lead heading into the Adelaide Test beginning December 17. Cummins, who has been managing a back issue, sat out the victories in Perth and Brisbane but is now poised to rejoin the pace attack. However, Australia will be without fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who has been ruled out for the rest of the series due to injury.


Cummins has not played since the third Test against the West Indies in Jamaica in July, when the 32-year-old first began experiencing back pain. He was the only new name added to the 15-man squad, with opener Usman Khawaja keeping his place despite missing the Brisbane Test due to a back issue.


Selectors had considered bringing Cummins into the pink-ball Test at the Gabba under overs restrictions after his recovery progressed faster than expected. Instead, he increased his workload at Allan Border Field, as reported by cricket.com.au, where he simulated match conditions by bowling multiple spells to ensure he would be fully ready for a return in the third Test.

"We feel as though he'll be as best prepared as can be," Australia coach Andrew McDonald said of Cummins on Tuesday.

"We feel as though the simulation in the nets has got him skill ready. His body's ready to go. Barring anything else happening in the next week, I'd be expecting Pat to be tossing the coin and putting the blazer on."

Hazlewood has been ruled out for the rest of the series due to Achilles and hamstring injuries. The team confirmed that his rehabilitation schedule has been revised, with his focus now shifting to preparing for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka early next year.

Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (captain), 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