Cummins returns as Australia name squad for 3rd Ashes Test
What's the story
Australia's Test captain Pat Cummins has been named in the squad for the third Ashes Test against England at Adelaide Oval. The match is scheduled to begin on December 17. This will be Cummins's first appearance in the ongoing series after missing the first two Tests due to a lumbar back stress injury. He last played competitive cricket during a West Indies tour in July this year.
Comeback strategy
Cummins's recovery and preparation for the Adelaide Test
Cummins was close to being selected for the Gabba Test last week, but opted to bowl several spells under match simulations. This was done to ensure he is as prepared as possible for the third Test. Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said, "He was well ahead of where we thought he'd be at and it did create a real live conversation for Brisbane." Notably, the Aussies are 2-0 up in the series.
Team dynamics
Khawaja's inclusion and Australia's selection challenges
Usman Khawaja has also been retained in the squad despite not being a major contributor at Perth and missing the Gabba Test due to his back injury. McDonald said he got along well in the nets in Brisbane and was expected to be fully match fit ahead of next week's Test. Australia's selection decisions are complicated by Nathan Lyon's return, which could see two players from Scott Boland, Michael Neser, and Brendan Doggett miss out.
Information
Australia's squad for 3rd Ashes Test
Squad: 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.