For the first time in more than two decades, Bangladesh are in Australia for a Test tour. But the tourists may have been in for a shock if they thought the opening match in the Top End would be a walkover. Cricket Australia’s latest retention decision has just revealed the real message.

The 13-man squad shows that Australia is not taking any chances as it looks to consolidate its position at the top of the World Test Championship (2025/27) table.

Australia’s Cavalry Arrives:

The headline of the selection isn’t a player that made the grade, but rather a player making their return from the medical room.
Australia’s best bowling trio (Cummins, Hazlewood, Lyon) are set to all reunite in the “baggy green” for the first time in the year, bringing significant power to the attack.

Pat Cummins (C): After playing a series in the Ashes, Cummins had to sit out due to a lower back stress fracture, and the captain is expected to lead his men out for the first time since returning to action in the IPL 2026, with these two Tests being his first return to the longer form this year.

Josh Hazlewood: The spearman had to miss the entire 2025 Test window with an ongoing injury, which prevented him from bending his back, but now Hazlewood will be able to resume his red-ball cricket after experiencing two setbacks, including a hamstring and an Achilles tear.

Nathan Lyon: The 38-year-old leg-spinner was forced to undergo surgery to his left hamstring after he suffered a severe muscle strain back in December. Nevertheless, Lyon is anticipated to make a comeback from his long-term injury, with him being eager to return to action after many feared it could jeopardize his career.

With such a powerful pace bowling trio on board, it means the likes of fan-favourite Scott Boland are likely to be pushed out, showing the depth the Aussies possess at the fast-bowling department.

“While this is a 13-player squad, we have players prepared and available should any adjustments be required… The volume of cricket and schedule across the next 12 months are likely to present further opportunities across formats” – Australia Chief selector George Bailey

Australia squad for Bangladesh Tests
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster.

A Historic Tour with WTC Points on the Line

Australia is heavily favored to win the two-match Test series as they sit at the top of the WTC standings with 7 wins out of 8. However, this series has a unique flavor as it is Bangladesh’s first-ever Test tour in Australia since 2003.

With matches in Darwin and Mackay, the series will be played in a tropical climate. Here’s the schedule for the fixtures:
1st Test: August 13 (Saturday) to 17 (Wednesday), Marrara Stadium, Darwin (10:00 AM Local / 5:00 AM IST)
2nd Test: August 22 (Monday) to 26 (Friday), Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay (10:00 AM Local / 5:30 AM IST)

As Australia prepares to face Bangladesh in the first Test of the series on August 13, they are not holding back any of their star players, as they look to dominate the WTC.