Big Four Bowlers Set to Reunite for Bangladesh Tests

Reuniting the Front Line

Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon are slated to return for Australia’s two‑test series against Bangladesh next month. The three have all recovered from recent injuries and are described by selection chairman George Bailey as “all fit to go.” Bailey stressed that an exact XI will not be finalised this early, but the depth of the bowling group is strong. This marks a step toward reuniting the so‑called Big Four, though Mitchell Starc remains sidelined.

13‑Man Squad Takes Shape

Australia named a 13‑player squad that blends experience with fresh options. The bowling unit includes pacemen Scott Boland, Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon, while all‑rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster add balance. Other members such as captain Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Jake Weatherald, Alex Carey and Marnus Labuschagne round out the group. The list reflects the depth needed for a demanding 12‑month calendar.

Full squad breakdown:

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

Venue and Schedule

The opening Test is scheduled for August 13‑17 in Darwin, Northern Territory, with the second venue set for Mackay, Queensland, August 22‑26. These matches launch a 12‑month stretch that will feature 20 Test fixtures, including tours of South Africa, India and England. The back‑to‑back series gives the new‑look attack a chance to build chemistry before the expanded international calendar.

Impact on Australia’s Future Tours

Having missed significant time due to injury, Cummins, Hazlewood and Lyon are eager to resume their roles as the core of Australia’s pace attack. Their return coincides with a packed schedule that demands depth and resilience. If the three can stay healthy, the chance of all four – adding Mitchell Starc – lining up together improves for upcoming series. This reunion could prove decisive when the team faces strong batting lines in the next 12 months.

Opening Batting Line‑up

Jake Weatherald keeps his spot at the top of the order after a solid run in the recent Ashes series win over England. He is expected to partner Travis Head, who brings aggressive form to the opening slot. The combination aims to give the new bowling unit a solid foundation from which to work. Weatherald’s retention signals confidence in his ability to start innings under the changing light conditions of the upcoming Tests.