Australia head into Adelaide with a commanding 2-0 lead in the 2025 Ashes, but the biggest talking points are around team selection, especially whether Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins will play in the third Test.
Selectors face key decisions that could influence the remainder of the series and their World Test Championship ambitions beyond the Ashes.
Will Lyon Play the Adelaide Test?
Nathan Lyon was a major surprise omission in Brisbane, removed from the XI for the pink-ball Test where Michael Neser excelled. It was the second time in three Tests that Australia overlooked Lyon — a genuine shift given his long-standing role as the team’s strike spinner and control bowler.
Despite that, chair of selectors George Bailey has now confirmed Lyon will definitely feature in Adelaide.
“When it suits and the time’s right, that will still be the case,” Bailey said, referring to Lyon’s ability to bowl long, controlling spells.
Aaron Finch echoed that sentiment, insisting that Lyon’s return is non-negotiable, suggesting Brendan Doggett may be the unlucky player to miss out.
A traditional day Test under the Adelaide sun should allow Lyon to play his natural role again, after pink-ball conditions limited his involvement in recent matches.
Will Cummins Play the Adelaide Test?
Australia captain Pat Cummins narrowly missed the second Test after selectors opted for caution in managing his bowling workload. The initial target was always Adelaide and the plan remains on track.
Cummins has now stated he is “good to go” provided training in the next few days goes smoothly.
“Barring any hiccups, I’ll be good to go and the body feels great,” he said on Kayo Sports.
The question will soon shift from “Will Cummins play?” to how many matches he can handle in the congested run: Adelaide → four-day break → Boxing Day Test → another four-day turnaround → Sydney.
With the Ashes likely secured before Christmas, rotation could play a part, but not before Australia aim to clinch the urn at the earliest opportunity.
Cummins will resume captaincy, though Steven Smith’s tactical input remains invaluable.
What Happens to Neser and Boland?
Michael Neser delivered a dream five-wicket haul in Brisbane, fueling the #NeserMustPlay debate once again. But with both Cummins and Lyon returning, one or two seamers must make way.
Selection considerations:
- Neser: outstanding in Brisbane, unlucky candidate to miss out
- Boland: could be rested ahead of Boxing Day
- Doggett: seven wickets in two Tests but most vulnerable to Lyon’s comeback
Finch summed up the challenge:
“When you look at being 2-0 up and ask if the next team is going to be stronger, the answer is probably yes.”
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Australia’s Selection Puzzle Signals Strength
Australia are poised to field an even stronger XI in Adelaide:
- Lyon back in the side
- Cummins expected to return as captain
- Strong debate over top-order balance with Khawaja still managing a back issue
From full-strength leadership to a reinforced attack, Australia’s plan appears geared toward sealing the Ashes quickly, while still keeping World Test Championship points in mind.
