Overview
- McDonald confirmed the Achilles issue developed separately to Hazlewood’s prior hamstring strain as he increased bowling loads during Gabba week.
- Pat Cummins completed match‑simulation spells at Allan Border Field and is expected to resume the captaincy for the third Test in Adelaide starting December 17.
- Selectors are set to name a 15‑player squad with Cummins the only addition, and Usman Khawaja is expected to be available with flexibility to bat outside his usual opening role.
- Nathan Lyon remains firmly in plans after his pink‑ball omission, with Scott Boland and Michael Neser under consideration to support a pace attack that changes with Cummins’ return.
- Australia lead the series 2‑0, Mitchell Starc has 18 wickets after overcoming minor side soreness, and England must win in Adelaide to keep Ashes hopes alive.