Australiaplaying XI for third Ashes 2025-26 Test Adelaide have been vindicated with two significant returns to their bowling attack as the hosts look to seal the series. captain Pat Cummins returns after missing the first two Tests with a back injury and the veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon He is also recalled after being controversially sent off in the previous match in Brisbane. The most notable omission from the lineup is the perfectly suited opener Osman Khawajaas the selectors opted for continuity with a winning opening partnership.
Ashes 2025-26, 3rd Test: Pat Cummins returns to bolster bowling attack for Adelaide XI
Australia have made two changes to their bowling unit for the crucial third Test at the Adelaide Oval, with captain Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon also signaling a return to a more traditional set-up using a specialist spinner. These innings come at the expense of two fast bowlers who had performed strongly in the previous Test: the all-rounder Michael Neserwho took five wicket hunts, and pacer Brendan Doggett. Cummins, who missed the first two Tests due to a back injury, has now confirmed that he is fully fit and ready to lead the attack without any restrictions, a huge boost for the team.
Speaking about his comeback and fitness levels, Cummins said:
“If I was playing in Brisbane I’d probably be in limited-overs, but go and play like any other Test match this week.”
The captain also admitted to difficult decisions regarding players, praising the team spirit in the team:
“And not just Uzzie, you’ve got Beau Webster who’s been out of those three Tests. Neser 5-fa and Doggy (Doggett) have played in the first two Tests and are doing really well. So it’s a disappointing group of players. But they’ve all been fantastic around the group. We need strong series more than anything.”
Lyon’s inclusion is crucial to Adelaide’s backcourt, which will aid rotation as the game progresses and add a key tactical dimension to Australia’s attack. Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland.
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Usman Khawaja left the continuity of the opener as selectors
The most talked about pick call was the decision to drop the experienced key Osman KhawajaDespite the 85-Test veteran recovering from back spasms, he was ruled out of the second Test. The voters chose to stick with the new, successful opening couple Head of Travis and Jake WeatheraldHe had built a strong partnership after Khawaja’s injury in the first Test. Khawaja, who turns 39 this month and has been in poor form recently, will have to wait for a way back into the side.
Captain Pat Cummins offered Khawaja hope for the future, insisting the veteran’s international career is far from over:
“Yes, potentially… I think the selectors have been adamant that we pick a side every week, it doesn’t necessarily have to be the same team as the week before… One of the strengths of Uzzie (Khawaja) is that he’s got runs at the top, he’s scored runs in the middle… If we didn’t think he’d be good enough here, then he’d come straight in. I can see a way back in the squad, some points if necessary.”
The rest of the batting order remains unchanged from the previous Test Josh English By retaining its No. 7 spot, it underscores voters’ confidence in the stability of the current top seven. The decision to prioritize consistency in winning battles, even at the expense of an accomplished and experienced veteran, highlights Australia’s ruthless approach to the Ashes series.
Australia XI for Adelaide Test:
Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
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