England face make-or-break moment for Ashes hopes

England's Ashes campaign has reached a critical juncture, needing a victory in Adelaide to keep their hopes alive as Pat Cummins returns to captain a near full-strength Australian side. After a disappointing start to the series, pressure is mounting on Ben Stokes' team to deliver a performance that reflects their pre-series optimism.

Following a mid-tour break and media attention, England's focus now shifts to Adelaide for a crucial Test match. Despite boasting a strong opening partnership and highly-ranked batters, England must overcome their recent struggles to avoid a series defeat. While victory is essential, Stokes has urged his players to show resilience and fight. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. he also recognizes the challenge posed by a formidable Australian team, bolstered by the return of Cummins and Nathan Lyon.

Australia's batting lineup has been strengthened by Travis Head's success, adding to England's worries. History is also against England, with a poor record in Australia since 2011. Since 2002-03, they have lost the Ashes after going down 2-0 in the first two tests in six of their last seven attempts.

England's willingness to embrace a new approach for this series hasn't yielded the desired results, and without a clear Plan B, they risk humiliation. The dropping of Shoaib Bashir, a player nurtured by Stokes, highlights the shift in strategy. Stokes is now focused on leading from the front, placing pressure on the team's collective culture.

Australia's strong bowling attack, including Cummins, Lyon, Starc, Boland, and Green, poses a significant threat to England's hopes. Australia's recent form is strong, while England has struggled.

Nathan Lyon returns to Adelaide, a ground where he has a strong record, further strengthening the Australian side. Jamie Smith will be under pressure to perform after a poor showing in Brisbane, with Stokes highlighting his need to improve.

Usman Khawaja is fit, but Travis Head and Jake Weatherald retain their places at the top of the order. Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon return to the Australian lineup, while Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser are omitted. England have kept faith with their batting lineup, but the lack of faith in Bashir is a significant talking point. Josh Tongue replaces Gus Atkinson in the bowling attack.

Adelaide is known for its flat pitch, which could favor England's batting. The shorter boundaries may also benefit their aggressive batters. Hot weather is expected, with a chance of showers later in the test.

Australia has a strong record at Adelaide since 2010, while in the Ashes, Australia have dominated at the venue. Nathan Lyon needs two more wickets to surpass Glenn McGrath as Australia's second-highest Test wicket-taker. Ben Duckett is approaching 3000 Test runs.

Pat Cummins acknowledged the depth in Australian cricket, while Ben Stokes emphasized the need for action on the field.