Overview
- Cummins is the only addition to the group from Brisbane, with Steve Smith set to hand back the captaincy and Usman Khawaja retained in the squad.
- Head coach Andrew McDonald said Cummins is “as best prepared as can be” and is expected to lead unless a late setback occurs.
- Team officials say Nathan Lyon will return to the XI after being omitted at the Gabba, restoring a specialist spin option alongside the frontline quicks.
- Josh Hazlewood remains ruled out of the series with Achilles and hamstring injuries, leaving Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett and Scott Boland competing for spots.
- England trail 2-0 and must win to keep the series alive, with their pace stocks further hit by Mark Wood being ruled out with a knee flare-up.