Australia made key changes for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, but Usman Khawaja was left out despite being fit again.
The 38 year old opener missed the first two Tests with back spasms. He did not open in the win in Perth and was ruled out of the Brisbane Test. Khawaja has now recovered. Even so, the selectors stayed with Travis Head and Jake Weatherald at the top. The decision has raised questions about Khawaja’s future in the team.
Pat Cummins returns to the side after missing the first two Tests with a back injury. The captain will lead the bowling attack once again. He will be joined by Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland, who both impressed in the earlier matches.
Nathan Lyon is also back in the playing eleven. The experienced spinner was left out in Brisbane when Australia went with an all pace attack. He now comes back as conditions in Adelaide offer more for spin.
Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser have been dropped to make room for the returning players.
Australia XI for the third Ashes Test: Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
