Cricket Australia has confirmed its 13-player squad for the upcoming Australia vs Bangladesh Test series, with captain Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon returning from injury. The two match ICC World Test Championship series begins on August 13, 2026, at Marrara Stadium in Darwin and marks Bangladesh’s first Test tour of Australia since 2003.

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The Australia Test squad announcement comes ahead of a busy international calendar, with the reigning World Test Championship holders looking to start the new cycle on a strong note. The return of Australia’s first choice bowling attack is a major boost as they prepare to face a Bangladesh side eager to make history on Australian soil.

Australia Squad vs Bangladesh 2026

Australia’s squad features a blend of experienced stars and versatile all rounders.

Australia’s 13-player squad:

Pat Cummins (Captain)
Travis Head
Marnus Labuschagne
Steve Smith
Jake Weatherald
Alex Carey
Josh Inglis
Cameron Green
Beau Webster
Josh Hazlewood
Mitchell Starc
Scott Boland
Nathan Lyon

The squad has retained its experienced batting core while welcoming back key bowlers who missed significant cricket because of injuries.

Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon Return

The biggest talking point from the Australia Test squadsAnnouncement is the return of Australia’s premier bowling trio.

Captain Pat Cummins is back after recovering from a back stress complaint that kept him out of action since late last year. Fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has also been declared fit after overcoming long term hamstring and Achilles injuries.

Veteran spinner Nathan Lyon returns following successful rehabilitation from hamstring surgery suffered during the Ashes. His presence will add valuable experience, especially if conditions begin to assist spin later in the series.

With Cummins, Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Lyon available, Australia once again have one of the strongest bowling attacks in world cricket.

Neser Misses Out Despite Strong Ashes

One of the notable omissions from the Australia squad vs Bangladesh 2026 is fast bowler Michael Neser.

Despite taking 15 wickets during the recent Ashes, including a memorable five wicket haul in Brisbane, Neser has been left out following the return of Australia’s first choice bowlers.

Chief selector George Bailey confirmed that Neser remains on standby alongside spinner Todd Murphy and pacer Brendan Doggett if workload management becomes necessary during the demanding season.

New Opening Combination

The series will also continue Australia’s transition after the retirement of veteran opener Usman Khawaja.

Jake Weatherald has retained his place and is expected to partner Travis Head at the top of the order. Competition for batting positions remains intense, with Cameron Green, Beau Webster, and Josh Inglis all pushing for regular places in the playing eleven.

Australia vs Bangladesh Test Series Schedule

The Australia vs Bangladesh Test series will consist of two matches:

1st Test: August 13 to 17, 2026 – Marrara Stadium, Darwin
2nd Test: August 22 to 26, 2026 – Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay

Speaking after naming the squad, chief selector George Bailey welcomed the return of Cummins, Hazlewood, and Lyon, praising the hard work they put into their recoveries. He also noted that although only 13 players have been selected, additional players remain ready if changes are needed during the series.

With their full strength bowling attack back in action, Australia will enter the series as overwhelming favourites and aim to begin their new World Test Championship campaign with two convincing victories.