Will Pat Cummins play the first Ashes Test match? Captain gives update: Australian Test captain and fast bowler Pat Cummins’ participation in the first Test of the Ashes series against England next month is now considered doubtful.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Cummins said that he is not fully fit and his chances of playing are very low. “I can’t say anything for sure, but I would say it’s at least unlikely. I still have some time,” Cummins told reporters in Sydney.
Recovery from back injury will take more time
Cummins has been struggling with a back injury for the past few months, which has kept him out of international cricket for three months. The injury is considered serious, and there is now speculation that Cummins may miss not only the first match but also the first two Ashes matches. However, the captain also stated that the recovery process is going better than expected. He said, “I have recently started light exercises in the gym. Session by session, I am feeling better.”
Bowling practice will begin soon
Cummins stated that he will begin bowling lightly next week. He added, “I think we’ll do some bowling preparation next week. It will probably take me a few more weeks to regain match fitness. Only then will I actually bowl.” Team management is currently closely monitoring Cummins’ condition. Australia has options like Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland, but Cummins’ absence could impact the team’s balance.
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Ashes Series Schedule
The five-Test Ashes series between Australia and England begins in Perth on November 21st. The second day-night Test will be played in Brisbane on December 4th. The remaining matches of the series will be played in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.
A major concern for Australia, but hope remains
Cummins is a key pillar of Australia’s Test team, especially in both the roles of bowling leader and captain. A major decision on his fitness will be made in the coming weeks, which could impact the balance of the entire Ashes series. The Australian Cricket Board wants to avoid rushing him into the field so that he can return fully fit mid-series or before the India tour in 2026.
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