Australian cricket has suffered a major blow ahead of the Ashes series 2025, which is set to begin in Perth on November 21. According to media reports, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins' return might be delayed, and it's possible he could miss the first Test of the series.
SPORTS NEWS: Bad news has emerged for Australia ahead of the Ashes series 2025. Australian Test captain Pat Cummins' return could be delayed. According to media reports, Cummins might miss the first Ashes Test starting in Perth on November 21, and there's a possibility he could miss the entire series. A hot spot has been found in Cummins' back, which has not fully healed even after recent medical scans.
The scans showed some improvement, but according to doctors, he is not yet fully fit for bowling. With only 6 weeks left until the first Test, his return could now be pushed back until December.
Cummins' Injury and Fitness Status
A hot spot has been found in Pat Cummins' back. Recent medical scans showed some improvement, but doctors have clarified that he is not currently fully fit for bowling. With only 6 weeks remaining until the first Ashes Test, his return could be pushed back to December. The Australian team faces the challenge of balancing its strategy in the captain's absence.
If Cummins is unable to become fully fit, the team's command might fall to Steve Smith. Smith has previously led the team during the Sri Lanka tour in Cummins' absence and performed exceptionally well. During this period, fast bowler Scott Boland is also likely to play a significant role in the team. In Cummins' absence, balancing Australia's bowling attack will be a major challenge, especially against a b team like England.
Cummins' Reaction
Pat Cummins stated a few weeks ago in Brisbane that missing the first Test would be extremely disappointing for him. He said,
'I am trying my best to get fit on time. The rehab is progressing well, and I am preparing thoroughly. It's also necessary to take risks to play in a big series like the Ashes.'
He also acknowledged that he has bowled a lot in the past few years and that it's now essential to focus on recovery and rehabilitation to minimize the risk of future injuries. Cummins recently stated in an interview that the decision regarding his return would depend on scan reports and his body's condition.
'We will assess the recovery progress after every two to three scans. In recovering from an injury, not just reports, but also the body's feedback is very crucial. Currently, I am staying away from bowling or running practice and maintaining fitness through gym and cycling.'
In his absence, the Australian team will face a major challenge not only in terms of captaincy but also in balancing their bowling attack.
