In the five-game Ashes Test series, Australia has already grabbed a decisive 2-0 lead. Pat Cummins has now been added to the 15-man squad for the forthcoming third Test, which is set to begin on December 17 at the Adelaide Oval, giving them a huge boost. Since Australia’s victory over the West Indies in the Caribbean in July, he had been sidelined due to a lumbar stress injury.
However, Josh Hazlewood, a top speedster, has been declared officially out of the series. He missed the first two Ashes Tests in Perth and Brisbane last month due to a hamstring injury sustained during Australia’s home Sheffield Shield competition.
Last week, Hazlewood experienced an additional setback due to an Achilles tendon injury. The seasoned speedster will miss the entire Test summer, according to Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald’s announcement on Tuesday. Hazlewood’s realistic goal would be to fully recover in time for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka in February or March of the following year.
Steve Smith has now been stripped of his leadership responsibilities upon Cummins’ comeback. He will resume his position as vice-captain of the team.
This year, Australia has been dominating the Ashes. However, despite often finding themselves in strong positions, England has not been able to make it matter.
Usman Khawaja, meanwhile, has returned to the team. Despite playing in the first Test, he was unable to open both innings. In order to give the southpaw time to heal, Cricket Australia (CA) did not include him in the playing XI. Australia decided to use Jake Weatherald and Travis Head as their new opening duo in his absence. Khawaja might be given a chance in the middle order, according to McDonald’s hints. Where the 38-year-old gets to bat would be intriguing to see.
Home