Cummins, Lyon Return for Adelaide; Khawaja Left Out as Australia Eye Ashes

Australia have named their XI for the crucial third Ashes Test in Adelaide, welcoming back skipper Pat Cummins and star spinner Nathan Lyon, while veteran opener Usman Khawaja once again finds himself on the sidelines.

Cummins returns to competitive cricket for the first time in five months after recovering from a lower-back stress injury sustained in July. He will lead the side alongside Lyon, whose inclusion bolsters an attack that now boasts a combined 871 Test wickets. They replace Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett, both of whom performed admirably in the first two Tests.

The batting order sees Australia persist with the surprise opening combination of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald, a pairing that emerged after the first Test. This decision continues to block the path for the 38-year-old Khawaja, casting further doubt over his international future.

When asked about the unconventional opening pair, Cummins remained pragmatic, stating, “At the moment it feels like it makes sense for now. That might change.” He added that the flexibility within the squad and the success of the current top order didn’t necessitate a change in the middle order.

While Khawaja’s immediate prospects appear bleak, Cummins did not completely shut the door on a recall. “If we didn’t think he’d be good enough to come straight in, then he wouldn’t be here in the squad. So absolutely I can see a path back at some point if needed,” the captain remarked.

England, trailing 0-2 in the series, have made one change to their XI, with Josh Tongue replacing Gus Atkinson.

Australia XI for 3rd Ashes Test: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

                                               

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