Australia and England are gearing up to lock horns in the third Test of the Ashes series starting on 17 November in Adelaide, with the showdown carrying enormous significance for both sides. England are under intense pressure, trailing 0–2 in the five-match series, and know very well that a defeat would all but end their hopes of reclaiming the urn. Australia, meanwhile, are in full control after securing two consecutive victories and will be eager to avail the benefits of their momentum.
The hosts confirmed their playing XI on Tuesday, with captain Pat Cummins and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon both named for the Adelaide Test. However, Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser have been left out as Australia opted to maintain a settled combination following their dominant performance in the previous match. Meanwhile, Usman Khawaja, despite recovering from a back injury, misses out, as the selectors have chosen to continue with the opening partnership of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald.
England have also unveiled their playing XI, as they search for solutions after being comprehensively outplayed in the opening two matches. For England, the series is on the line, and they face a must-win scenario, hoping for a stronger showing from both their batting and bowling departments.
Head-to-head (Adelaide)
Matches - 33
AUS won - 19
ENG won - 9
Drawn - 5
Australia XI: Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue