A significant enhancement to Australia's bowling lineup has been confirmed with the return of key players Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood to the squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh. The trio's limited participation in the recent home Ashes series, with Hazlewood absent from Australia's Test side since July 2025, has come to an end. Their return, combined with the inclusion of seamers Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland, could pose a selection challenge for head coach Andrew McDonald.
This is especially considering Boland's impressive 20-wicket haul in the series against England, which Australia won 4-1. According to chief selector George Bailey, "Scotty would never say it, but I think he's mounting a strong case that when you use the words of big three (fast bowlers), that he could be one of those." The reinstatement of Hazlewood and Cummins means Michael Neser will not be part of the squad, despite his notable 15 wickets in the winter Ashes series. However, the squad does see the return of opener Jake Weatherald, who has been in excellent form for Leicestershire in the County Championship, scoring 483 runs at an average of 60.37.
Weatherald could potentially open the batting for Australia in his hometown during the first Test in Darwin, scheduled for August 13. Additionally, Warwickshire overseas player Beau Webster offers an all-round option for Australia in the middle order, while Cameron Green seeks to make an impact after a disappointing Ashes series.
The two-Test series against Bangladesh, with the second Test taking place in Mackay, Queensland, will serve as preparation for a challenging three-Test tour of South Africa in October. The Australian squad consists of Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, and Beau Webster.