Australia Test Squad Announced Against Bangladesh as Pat Cummins Returns

Cricket Australia has confirmed the Australia Test squad announced vs Bangladesh, naming a 13-player group for the two-match series that will begin in Darwin on August 13. The selection sees Pat Cummins return as captain after recovering from the lumbar stress reaction that sidelined him for much of the recent Ashes campaign, while Nathan Lyon is also back after injury.

The series forms part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle, with Australia aiming to strengthen their position at the top of the standings. Bangladesh, currently fourth, will be looking to close the gap when the teams meet across two Tests later this month.

Experienced Core Restored

Australia's pace attack regains its familiar look with Cummins joining Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, while Scott Boland has been retained as the reserve fast bowler. Nathan Lyon's return also restores Australia's first-choice spin option after he missed the closing stages of last summer's home Ashes series.

The batting unit, however, enters the series without retired opener Usman Khawaja. Selectors have included Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne and Jake Weatherald among the available top-order options as Australia reshapes its lineup.

Australia Test Squad Against Bangladesh

Pat Cummins (c), 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.

Selectors Explain Smaller Squad

National Selection Panel chairman George Bailey said the returning senior players had completed extensive rehabilitation before being cleared for selection.

"The NSP look forward to the return of Pat, Josh and Nathan. They have worked extremely hard, individually and with the SSSM (sports science and sports medicine) teams, over the past few months to return from their respective injuries."

Bailey also addressed the decision to announce a 13-man squad rather than the more common 15-player group.

"While this is a 13-player squad, we have players prepared and available should any adjustments be required in the lead up to these matches.

"As previously stated, the volume of cricket and schedule across the next 12 months are likely to present further opportunities across all formats for many players."

The opening Test will be played in Darwin from August 13 to 17 before the series concludes in Mackay between August 22 and 26.