Pat Cummins will be back in charge for Australia in the third Ashes Test in Adelaide next week. The regular captain has now recovered from the back injury that kept him out of the first two Tests. Australia also suffered a setback as they have to move on without Josh Hazlewood. He suffered a hamstring and later Achilles issues for which he has been ruled out of the entire series.
Head coach Andrew McDonald told reporters, “Really flat for him.” He added that the pacer suffered “a couple of setbacks that we didn’t see coming. We thought he’d play a huge part in the series. But really feel for him that he won’t get that opportunity,” McDonald said.
The coach gave further insight into Cummins’ preparation, explaining that the fast bowler went through strong training sessions at Allan Border Field. McDonald said, “There won’t be any match opportunities for Pat (before Adelaide) – and this is something we’ve done with Pat before long-ish layoffs, where we’ve put some time and effort into rebuilding his body. He was out at Allan Border Field whilst everyone was at the Gabba; he simulated pretty much what a match will look like out there with multiple spells.”
Nathan Lyon is also expected to return for the third Test. His inclusion is expected to balance the spin attack. Australia currently lead the series 2-0, and the next Test will be played from December 17, where Australia will aim to seal the series.
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