Summary:
- England will enter the third Ashes Test 2–0 down, well-aware that a defeat would mean the end the series.
- Australia has chosen Pat Cummins as captain while sticking with their current top order, leaving Usman Khawaja out.
- Ben Stokes is getting ready for the biggest match of his captaincy.
It’s final: Australia have announced their calls for Adelaide’s third Ashes Test, and the list leaves out one of their most popular names: Usman Khawaja.
The 38-year-old will not be making a comeback to the side, despite the series being poised and England dealing with what Ben Stokes called the biggest match of his captaincy.
No Room to Maneuver
England arrive in Adelaide 2–0 down and out of room to maneuver, as another loss would translate to the Ashes being gone, along with any chance to end a run that will stretch to at least 12 years without winning the urn.
Another defeat would also mean a fourth straight series loss in Australia and would turn up the heat on Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum, and managing director Rob Key.
Stokes has not shied away from what is at stake, telling the BBC Sport.
Throughout my career I’ve been involved in quite a few big moments. This is another one and I’m really, really looking forward to it I’ve enjoyed the build-up, I’ve enjoyed the pressure of what this game means. As it’s come closer and closer, it’s become a lot easier.
Australia Welcome Cummings
Australia, meanwhile, welcome back captain Pat Cummins, who missed the first two Tests while recovering from a back problem. He replaces Michael Neser, while Nathan Lyon comes in for Brendan Doggett.
Travis Head and Jake Weatherald will continue to open, meaning no recall for Khawaja, who turns 39 this week and may already have played his final Test.
Cummins insists he is ready for the demands of Adelaide, even with high temperatures forecast.
I had 16 weeks completely off bowling, made sure the bone heals well, and from there it’s ramping up. We set on a pretty aggressive plan to get up in six or seven weeks. I haven’t had any hiccups. I’m feeling great, probably better than I would have thought. The back has healed well, so, here we are.
England have tried to reset after the Brisbane loss, spending time away in Noosa before regrouping for training in Adelaide. Josh Tongue replaces Gus Atkinson, while Shoaib Bashir again misses out as Will Jacks keeps his place.
Stokes has spoken openly about the mental strain of this tour, especially for players experiencing Australia for the first time.
I’ve got an understanding that quite a few guys in the dressing room won’t have that to fall back on. What I feel like I’ve had to do is fall back on my own experiences, and voice that to the group.
With England needing three straight wins to save the series, Stokes knows words alone will not be enough.
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