Australia have hit the reset button for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, recalling skipper Pat Cummins and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon as they look to assert control in the pink-ball clash.
Cummins’ return
is the headline move. The fast-bowling spearhead is back after missing the first two Tests with a back injury and will immediately resume leadership of the attack.
Lyon is the other major inclusion, marking a comeback after being left out at the Gabba, where Australia opted for an all-pace attack. The veteran off-spinner’s omission in recent pink-ball Tests had raised eyebrows, especially given his experience and record in Australian conditions.
Adelaide Oval, however, offers a different challenge, and Lyon is expected to play a key role as the match wears on.
The 38-year-old has previously expressed frustration at missing out on day-night fixtures, insisting he can contribute regardless of conditions. But ahead of his return, Lyon dismissed any talk of proving a point.
“I’ve played 140 Test matches, I feel like I don’t have a point to prove to anyone,” Lyon said. “I’m very clear on my role within this Australian cricket team. I love playing with everyone in that change room, and love representing Australia. So if I get that opportunity again, I’ll keep doing that.”
While Cummins and Lyon come back in, fit-again opener Usman Khawaja remains on the sidelines. The 38-year-old had a disrupted start to the series, battling back spasms in the Perth Test before missing the Brisbane match altogether.
Despite being available for selection, his omission — and the selectors’ preference for Travis Head — leaves Khawaja’s immediate Test future under scrutiny.
Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser are the players to make way as Australia reshuffle their XI.
Australia’s Playing XI – Third Ashes Test:
Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
(with agency inputs)
