In what could come as a major blow for Australia cricket team, captain Pat Cummins is suspected to have a back issue more graver than what was assumed in the first place. The five-match Test series between arch-rivals England and Australia is scheduled to commence from November 21 onwards. With just over two months left to go for the series, a report has claimed that Cummins might possibly not take part in all five Tests.
Cummins to take Bumrah route in Ashes?
As per Daily Mail, a routine scan has revealed that Cummins has a serious back issue that needs careful management. The report claims that the medical tests taken this week will confirm the signs of stress, adding that there are high chances that he won’t be playing all 5 Tests in the Ashes. Cummins is also reportedly set to miss the T20I series against New Zealand and the ODI series against India in October.
“While officials insist there is no cause for panic, selectors are bracing for the possibility he won’t play every Test,” the report stated.
Cummins was battling a minor ankle injury earlier this year. The pacer took part in all five Tests against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. it is pertinent to point out that there was a 6-year-gap between the Australian captain’s first (2011) and second Test (2017) due to recurring injuries. The report states that while Australia are optimistic that he would be available for the Ashes opener in Brisbane, his workload will have to be carefully rationed, just like how India are dealing with Jasprit Bumrah.
2025-26 Men’s Ashes series dates:
- Perth Test (West Test): Perth Stadium | Nov 21-25
- Brisbane Test (Day/Night Test): Gabba | Dec 4-8
- Adelaide Test (Christmas Test): Adelaide Oval | Dec 17-21
- Melbourne Test (Boxing Day Test): MCG | Dec 26-30
- Sydney Test (New Year’s Test): SCG | Jan 4-8
