Australia’s 'Big Four' bowlers return for test series against Bangladesh

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Australia's primary pace bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon have all regained fitness and are expected to feature in the upcoming two-test series against Bangladesh starting August 13. This reunion of the "Big Four" is significant as it strengthens Australia's bowling attack ahead of a packed international calendar that includes tours to South Africa, India, and England.

Australia’s leading pace bowlers are set to return for the upcoming two-test series against Bangladesh, with Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon regaining fitness after injury layoffs. The series is scheduled to begin on August 13 in Darwin, Northern Territory, followed by a second test from August 22 in Mackay, Queensland.

The quartet of Cummins, Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Lyon—often referred to as Australia’s "Big Four" bowling attack—has formed the core of the national team’s bowling arsenal in recent years. However, injuries have prevented them from frequently appearing together in the same lineup during recent tours. George Bailey, chairman of Australia’s selection committee, confirmed on Tuesday that the key bowlers are all fit and available, though final team selection remains undecided.

Bailey emphasized that while no playing XI has been finalized this far in advance, the squad boasts considerable depth. "I’m sure that there will be tests in the future where that group plays together," he said, referencing the possibility of the full "Big Four" returning to the field simultaneously.

The 13-man squad assembled for the Bangladesh series also includes pace bowler Scott Boland as well as allrounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster, providing the selectors with a wide range of options. Bailey noted that the demanding schedule over the coming year—with 20 test matches planned, including tours to South Africa, India, and England—will necessitate rotation and will likely create further opportunities for several players across Australia’s formats.

The batting lineup retains some familiar faces from the previous Ashes series win, with Jake Weatherald expected to open the innings alongside Travis Head. The squad also features prominent players such as captain Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Mitchell Starc.

Australia’s engagement with Bangladesh marks the start of a busy 12-month cycle for the national cricket team, as they prepare for a rigorous international schedule that will test their depth and resilience.

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