Pat Cummins Returns to Boost Australia's Bowling Attack

Australia's bowling attack has received a significant boost with the return of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon to the squad for the two-Test series against Bangladesh.

What Happened?

The trio played only three Tests together during the home Ashes series last winter, but their return is expected to create a selection headache for head coach Andrew McDonald. Hazlewood, in particular, has been missing from the Test side since July 2025.

Why It Matters for Pat Cummins

The returns of Hazlewood and Cummins mean that Michael Neser misses out despite taking 15 wickets in the winter Ashes series. The squad also sees a return for opener Jake Weatherald, who has been in fine form for Leicestershire in the County Championship.

What Comes Next?

Australia's two-Test series against Bangladesh will provide valuable preparation for a formidable three-Test tour of South Africa in October. The squad has been bolstered by the selections of seamers Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland, who took 20 wickets in the series against England.

The returns of Cummins, Hazlewood, and Lyon are expected to create a selection headache for McDonald, but the squad's overall strength is a positive sign for Australia's cricket team. The team's ability to rotate players and keep them fresh will be crucial in the upcoming series against Bangladesh.

Australia's 13-man squad for the two-Test series against Bangladesh is:

* 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

The series against Bangladesh is set to begin on August 13 in Darwin, with the second Test being played in the Queensland town of Mackay.