Arjit Kumar - Tuesday, Dec 23, 2025Ashes 2025-26: Although the Australian team has secured an unassailable 3-0 lead in the Ashes series and claimed the trophy, they have suffered two major setbacks ahead of the final two matches. Regular captain Pat Cummins and experienced spinner Nathan Lyon have been ruled out of the remainder of the series.
The 32-year-old Pat Cummins played in the third Test in Adelaide after recovering from a back stress injury. Having already secured the series, the team management did not want to take any further risks with him. Head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed this on Tuesday, saying, "Pat will no longer be part of the series. Our goal was to win the series, which we have achieved. It wouldn't be right to put him at any further risk."
Steve Smith's return and Lyon's surgery: In Cummins' absence, Steve Smith will captain the team, provided he fully recovers from his inner-ear issue. Meanwhile, veteran spinner Nathan Lyon will undergo surgery on his right hamstring. He sustained the injury while attempting to save a boundary on the fifth day of the Adelaide Test. Off-spinner Todd Murphy has been included in the squad as his replacement.
Will Jhye Richardson's 4-year wait end? Jhye Richardson has returned to the fast bowling department. If he is selected in the playing XI in place of Cummins, he will play his first Test match in four years. Richardson recently proved his fitness by taking 5 wickets against England Lions.
Australia squad for the Boxing Day Test: Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
