Australia captain Pat Cummins’ participation in the upcoming Ashes series against England is now uncertain. A report suggests the fast bowler might miss the opening Test and could even be out for the entire five-match series.
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The Ashes 2025 series begins on November 21, with the first Test scheduled at the Optus Stadium in Perth. According to The Sydney Morning Herald, recent medical scans have shown that Cummins’ back stress injury has still not fully healed, making it risky for him to start bowling again.
Sources close to the Australian team told the newspaper that Cummins underwent a detailed scan last week to check his recovery progress. While the scan showed signs of healing, doctors advised that the issue has not cleared up enough for him to resume bowling safely.
In Cummins’ absence, senior batter Steve Smith is expected to lead the side. Fast bowler Scott Boland is likely to join Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc as the third seamer for the Perth Test.
Cummins’ absence would be a major setback for Australia’s hopes of retaining the Ashes Urn. However, Boland has already impressed with his disciplined performances in previous Test matches and could be a key contributor.
Speaking about the possibility of missing the start of the Ashes last month, Cummins admitted it would be “devastating.” He said the team was doing everything possible to help him recover in time, adding that he was confident about his rehab process.
“It’s a big Ashes series, it doesn’t get much bigger,” Cummins said. “We’re trying to make sure we do everything right to be fit for Perth. Sometimes you need to take a few risks to play as many Tests as possible.”
The 32-year-old pacer also noted that injuries are part of a fast bowler’s career. “I’ve had a really good run so far and been looked after well. Hopefully, I recover quickly and don’t miss too much cricket,” he added.