Cummins Ashes Return Uncertain
Cummins Hopes to Play in Ashes but Return Remains Uncertain
Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins remains hopeful of featuring in the upcoming Ashes series, but a definitive return date is still uncertain. The pacer, 32, has been sidelined since the white-ball series against New Zealand in October and has not bowled competitively since the Test tour of the West Indies in June-July.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Cummins said he is keeping up his fitness but must proceed cautiously due to his ongoing back issues. “I’m still doing a bit of gym and keeping things moving, but with this kind of injury, it’s rest first, then building back gradually towards the Ashes,” he explained.
He added, “I’m really hopeful to be part of the Ashes, but it’s a bit of a wait-and-see. The aim is to try and be ready for all five Tests, but the final decision will come closer to the series.”
Cummins’s back problems are not new. He has faced several setbacks over the years, including a severe flare-up in 2018 that sidelined him for an entire season.
Australia coach Andrew McDonald expressed confidence in the skipper’s ability to contribute to the team, but acknowledged that the uncertainty is not ideal. Speaking to SEN radio, he said, “It’s not ideal. I’m not going to say it’s ideal, but it’s an overreaction to suggest he won’t play.”
The first Ashes Test against England is scheduled to begin in Perth on November 21. Australia retained the Ashes in England in 2023 after a 2-2 series draw and had previously completed a 4-0 sweep at home in 2021-22, with Cummins as the leading wicket-taker at 21 scalps.
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