Australia have named a strong 13-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh, with captain Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon all returning after recovering from injuries. Their comeback gives Australia a full-strength bowling attack as they prepare to begin their new ICC World Test Championship campaign.
The series, which starts in August, will also mark Bangladesh’s first Test tour of Australia in nearly 20 years. While the experienced trio are fit again, the selectors have made it clear that no player is guaranteed a place in the playing XI.
Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon joined the squad after a long break
Cummins returns after recovering from a back injury, while Hazlewood is back following hamstring and Achilles problems that kept him out of the Ashes. Lyon has also regained fitness after missing the latter part of the Ashes with a hamstring injury.
Their return significantly strengthens Australia’s bowling resources. Mitchell Starc has retained his place in the squad, while Scott Boland, who impressed during the Ashes with consistent performances, remains in contention for a spot in the playing XI.
Chief selector George Bailey said the returning players are fully fit, but the final team for each Test will be decided based on form, fitness and match conditions.
Weatherald retained, Neser left out for Bangladesh test series
Jake Weatherald has been retained in the squad after earning his opportunity following Usman Khawaja’s retirement from Test cricket. Cameron Green and Beau Webster provide all-round options, while Josh Inglis has been included as the reserve wicketkeeper and middle-order batter.
Australia are set to have all their first-choice bowlers available for the Test series against Bangladesh in August pic.twitter.com/S8Abdt8We0
— Cricinfo (@cricinfo) July 21, 2026
Michael Neser, despite performing well during the Ashes, has missed out on selection as Australia opted to stick with its preferred fast-bowling group.
Australia will look to make a winning start to the new World Test Championship cycle before heading to South Africa later in the year. The Bangladesh series will be played in Darwin and Mackay, with both teams aiming to begin the campaign on a positive note.
