Bangladesh face Australia Test might as Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon return | Cricket News
Australia Set for Full Strength as Key Players Return for Bangladesh Test Series
Published: July 21, 2026
Australia is poised to enter a two-Test series against Bangladesh next month at full strength, following the return of injured players Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon. The team announced a 13-man squad, which will compete in matches scheduled for August 13-17 in Darwin and August 22-26 in Mackay.
Cummins, the team captain, alongside fast bowler Hazlewood and veteran spinner Lyon, missed significant play during the previous Ashes series, participating in only three Tests combined. Their inclusion is part of the World Test Championship cycle.
Chief selector George Bailey acknowledged that while the trio is fit, it is too early to confirm their participation in the opening match against Bangladesh. “We won’t be locking in an 11 this far out,” Bailey stated during a video call with reporters. “We do know that across this two-Test series, the depth is there.”
Hazlewood, 35, has claimed 295 Test wickets at an average of 24.21. However, injuries have impacted his recent performance, causing him to miss the entire Ashes series due to hamstring and Achilles issues. In his absence, Scott Boland emerged as a formidable competitor, securing 20 wickets in the recent 4-1 victory over England.
Bailey noted Boland’s strong case for inclusion among Australia’s elite fast bowlers, hinting at heightened competition within the team. The return of Hazlewood means that Michael Neser, who had a solid Ashes campaign, will not be included in the squad.
This selection marks a new chapter for Australia, following the retirement of opener Usman Khawaja, creating opportunities at the top of the batting order. Jake Weatherald remains in contention despite a challenging debut series in the Ashes, where he averaged 22.33. Bailey expressed optimism about Weatherald’s development alongside Travis Head during the series.
Cameron Green was also retained after struggling with both bat and ball in the Ashes. He joins Beau Webster as one of two all-rounders in the squad. Josh Inglis has been included as a potential middle-order option.
Currently, Australia leads the World Test Championship standings and is looking to strengthen their position with a series victory over fourth-placed Bangladesh before a challenging tour to South Africa in October.
Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.
