Pat Cummins Returns for Bangladesh Test Series
Australia have recalled captain Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon for the two-Test home series against Bangladesh, restoring three senior bowlers after injury-disrupted campaigns during the Ashes.
Pat Cummins Returns as Australia Captain
Cummins is in line to play his first Test since December after recovering from a back injury. Hazlewood, who missed the entire Ashes because of hamstring and Achilles problems, has also been included in the 13-player squad.
Lyon returns after undergoing rehabilitation for a hamstring injury that limited his involvement against England. The trio played only three Ashes Tests between them, leaving Australia without its established bowling unit for much of the series.
Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland complete a strong pace group, although selectors have not confirmed which bowlers will feature in the opening Test.
Australia Test Squad for Bangladesh
Australia’s squad comprises Pat Cummins, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald and Beau Webster.
Michael Neser was omitted despite performing strongly during the Ashes, while backup spinners Todd Murphy and Matt Kuhnemann were also left out.
Weatherald retained his place following Usman Khawaja’s retirement and is expected to compete for an opening position. Green and Webster provide all-round options, while Inglis offers additional batting and wicketkeeping cover.
Australia-Bangladesh Test Schedule
The first Test will be played in Darwin from August 13 to 17, marking the return of Test cricket to Australia’s Northern Territory after 22 years. Mackay will host the second match from August 22 to 26.
Both Tests form part of the ICC World Test Championship. Australia currently lead the standings, while Bangladesh are fourth. The tour will be Bangladesh’s first Test series in Australia since 2003.
