Australia One Draw Away from Retaining Urn as Cummins Returns to Command

BRISBANE:  Australia is poised to retain the Ashes as captain Pat Cummins prepares to return to the squad for the third Test in Adelaide, starting next week. With a commanding 2-0 series lead, the hosts need only to secure a draw in the pink-ball match at the Adelaide Oval to retain the coveted Urn. A victory would seal the five-Test series.

The fast bowler missed the first two successful Tests due to a back injury, but his return marks the only alteration to the squad, signaling confidence in the winning formula. Cummins’ presence is critical as Australia looks to close out the series decisively.

The pressure is squarely on England, who must now end a 17-Test winless run on Australian soil to stand any chance of squaring the series. Historically, no England team has ever come back from a 2-0 deficit to win the Ashes.

The memory of the last Ashes series, however, serves as a cautionary tale for the Australian camp. Australia squandered a 2-0 lead against England in 2023, eventually drawing that series 2-2.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey emphasized the need for continued focus despite the strong position. “To come to Adelaide 2-0 is a good position to be in, but we understand the series is definitely not over,” Carey said. “We know England are a very good cricket team and we know we were in a position like this in England, then we weren’t able to win that series.”

The day-night Test in Adelaide, starting on 17 December, will likely see the return of premium off-spinner Nathan Lyon, creating a final selection hurdle for the hosts. With star pacer Josh Hazlewood ruled out for the remainder of the series, the focus falls on the fitness and form of the remaining bowlers.

Despite the 2-0 deficit, England’s squad is currently on a break in Noosa before returning to face what promises to be a series-defining match under the lights in South Australia.