Injury Forces Cummins Out of Ashes Opener

Pat Cummins’ exclusion from the Ashes was almost inevitable. Yet, the resilient Australian skipper kept trying until the end, even expressing his willingness to play despite the risks. However, Australia will now have to start the iconic red-ball series on November 1 without their captain.

Due to a back injury, Pat Cummins will miss the first Test of the Ashes. Australian head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that the waiting period has run out.

“We mentioned about a week ago that Cummins would need around four weeks to be fully fit. Unfortunately, that period has ended,” said McDonald. “However, we remain optimistic that he’ll be available for the second Test.”

There is still hope that Australia’s Test captain could return for the Brisbane Test. McDonald shared that Cummins is expected to start bowling before the second Test, scheduled to begin on December 4 in Brisbane.

“Everyone wants to know about his timeline—whether he can return before the second Test. It’s hard to say right now,” said McDonald. “But he’ll start bowling this week, which is a big step forward. This was the phase we needed to reach. We’re progressing well and hoping to have him back in Brisbane.”

He further added, “With injuries like this, it’s never possible to set an exact timeframe. Everyone wants certainty about his return, but we can’t say that right now. I also won’t put that pressure on the medical team.”

In Cummins’ absence, Steven Smith will lead Australia in the first Test against England in Perth.

Cummins’ exclusion from the opening Test was largely anticipated. Since being diagnosed with a lumbar stress injury in September, he hasn’t been able to return to bowling. After the West Indies tour, the Australian all-rounder felt discomfort in his back and has been sidelined for the past few weeks.

Khabarwala/TSN