Australia vs England 3rd Test 2025 | Ashes Adelaide Match Preview

 

Get the full Australia vs England 3rd Test 2025 preview. Ashes series latest updates, squads, key players, match date, venue and prediction from Adelaide Oval.

Australia, on the other hand, are in complete control, dominating both Tests with strong batting, lethal pace bowling and clinical finishing. The return of Pat Cummins as captain adds even more depth and confidence to the home side ahead of this highly anticipated day-night Test.

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Australia Leads the Series 2–0: Total Control of the Ashes

Australia have looked unstoppable so far:

• 1st Test, Perth: Australia won by 8 wickets

• 2nd Test, Brisbane: Australia won again by 8 wickets

Their top order has been consistent, the bowlers have been relentless, and the team has shown great balance across departments.

England, meanwhile, have struggled with both batting collapses and inconsistent bowling. They now face a must-win scenario in Adelaide.

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Key Storyline: Pat Cummins Returns

One of the biggest talking points for the 3rd Test is the return of Pat Cummins, who missed the 2nd Test due to a back issue. His comeback brings:

• Better control with the new ball

• Strong leadership

• Higher confidence in the bowling unit

• Tactical sharpness during pressure situations

With Cummins back, Australia look even more dangerous under the pink ball.

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Match Details – Australia vs England 3rd Test 2025

• Match: Australia vs England, 3rd Test

• Series: Ashes 2025–26

• Start Date: 17 December 2025

• Venue: Adelaide Oval

• Format: Day/Night (Pink Ball Test)

The Adelaide Oval has always been known for swing and seam movement during twilight sessions, making this Test extremely competitive.

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Australia: Predicted Playing XI

Australia’s likely XI looks strong and balanced:

1. Usman Khawaja

2. Steven Smith

3. Marnus Labuschagne

4. Travis Head

5. Cameron Green

6. Mitchell Marsh

7. Alex Carey (wk)

8. Pat Cummins (c)

9. Mitchell Starc

10. Josh Hazlewood

11. Nathan Lyon

This combination gives Australia power, experience, and variety across batting and bowling.

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England: Predicted Playing XI

England must make big improvements to avoid a 3–0 deficit. Their possible XI:

1. Ben Duckett

2. Zak Crawley

3. Joe Root

4. Ollie Pope

5. Ben Stokes (c)

6. Harry Brook

7. Jonny Bairstow (wk)

8. Chris Woakes

9. Mark Wood

10. James Anderson

11. Shoaib Bashir / Hartley (spinner)

England’s success depends heavily on Root, Stokes, and Brook, along with their pace attack adapting to pink-ball conditions.

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Pitch Report – Adelaide Oval

The Adelaide pitch for the pink-ball Test usually offers:

• Early swing for pacers

• Good bounce

• Spin support in the final two days

• Batting becomes tricky under lights

This gives Australia a clear advantage, especially with Starc and Cummins in the lineup.

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What England Must Do to Stay Alive

England can still fight back—but only if they:
✔ Build long partnerships
✔ Avoid collapses during twilight sessions
✔ Use the new ball effectively
✔ Control Australia’s left-handers, especially Travis Head

Without major improvements, the series could slip away quickly.

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Match Prediction – Who Will Win the 3rd Test?

Australia enter this Test as clear favourites due to:

• Strong form

• Home conditions

• Experienced bowling attack

• Pat Cummins’ return

England can bounce back, but they need a top-order revival and disciplined bowling.

Prediction: Australia likely to win or dominate unless England produce something extraordinary.

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FAQs – Australia vs England 3rd Test 2025

1. When does the 3rd Test begin?

The match starts on 17 December 2025 at the Adelaide Oval.

2. Who leads the Ashes series so far?

Australia are ahead 2–0.

3. Is Pat Cummins playing the 3rd Test?

Yes, Pat Cummins returns to lead Australia.

4. Is the 3rd Test a pink-ball match?

Yes, it’s a day-night Test using the pink ball.

5. Which team has the advantage?

Australia, due to better form, home conditions, and a stronger lineup.