Khawaja Misses Out as Cummins and Lyon Return for Third Ashes Test

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a significant shake-up for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, Australia captain Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon are set to rejoin the team, while opener Usman Khawaja has been dropped, casting uncertainty over his test future. Cummins makes his comeback following a recovery from a back injury that sidelined him for the first two tests in Perth and Brisbane, while Lyon returns after being benched for Australia's eight-wicket victory in the last match.

The duo replaces pace bowlers Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser, teaming up with Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland in the bowling lineup. Khawaja, who missed the Brisbane match due to back spasms, will not reclaim his opening spot despite being fit; selectors have opted to stick with Travis Head and Jake Weatherald after their successful partnership last time out.

Cummins expressed confidence in Khawaja, who will celebrate his 39th birthday on Thursday, and has accumulated 85 tests with an impressive average of 43.56. He highlighted that Khawaja’s substantial experience and adaptability in batting roles keeps him in the selectors’ thoughts as a prospective returnee.

Josh Inglish is retained at the number seven position after stepping into the middle order during the last test. With Australia leading the ongoing five-match series 2-0, a draw in Adelaide will suffice for them to retain the coveted Ashes urn. Cummins acknowledged lessons learned from the previous Ashes series in 2023, where the team allowed England to level the series 2-2 after initially leading 2-0.

Australia’s confirmed playing XI for the Adelaide Test will include Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Scott Boland.