Australia’s Ashes preparations have hit a serious roadblock, with captain Pat Cummins facing a race against time to be fit for the 2025-26 series opener in Perth. The star pacer is battling a lumbar bone stress injury and, according to early reports, might not only miss the first Test but could even be sidelined for the entire series against England.
Injury Blow Just Weeks Before the Ashes
Less than six weeks before the iconic Ashes series begins, Australia has been dealt a massive blow. Reports from The Age suggest Cummins has “no chance” of recovering in time for the first Test, scheduled to begin on November 21.
The 32-year-old has been nursing a back injury since the conclusion of the West Indies tour earlier this year, which also ruled him out of the upcoming white-ball matches against India. Recent scans revealed the injury has not fully healed, leaving selectors and fans anxious about his availability for the marquee contest.
Cummins Opens Up on Recovery and Hopes
Despite the grim outlook, Cummins remains optimistic about returning at some point during the series. He admitted that the idea of missing the start of the Ashes was “devastating,” but insisted he’s doing everything possible to make a comeback.
“We’ll be doing everything we can to be right for that and make a few decisions a little bit closer,” Cummins told The Age. “I’m confident we’ll do the rehab right and give it a good crack.”
“It’s hard to know this far out, but we’re trying to make sure we’re doing everything right to be ready for Perth. It’s a huge Ashes series — it doesn’t get much bigger — so you’re willing to take a few risks to play as much as possible. I’ve bowled a lot in recent years, so something was bound to happen. Hopefully, we get this right and I don’t miss too much cricket,” he added.
Leadership Shuffle on the Horizon
Cummins’ unavailability could force Australia into a leadership reshuffle. Vice-captain Steve Smith is expected to step in as captain if Cummins is ruled out, leading the side for the first time in an Ashes series since 2017-18.
Meanwhile, the pace attack could see some changes too. Scott Boland is likely to be drafted in as the third seamer, joining Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood as Australia aims to retain the urn on home soil.
A Nervous Wait for Australia
The first Ashes Test begins on November 21 in Perth, and Cummins’ absence would be a huge psychological blow to Australia’s plans. As the team’s leader and spearhead, his fitness could play a decisive role in the series outcome.
For now, Australia will be hoping their captain’s rehabilitation progresses quickly — because without Pat Cummins leading from the front, their Ashes defence could become a much steeper uphill battle.
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