Pat Cummins Ruled Out of Ashes Opener Against England

Australia captain Pat Cummins will miss the first Ashes Test against England starting November 21 due to a lumbar bone stress injury. Cricket Australia confirmed that while Cummins has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation, he has not recovered in time for the opener but is expected to return for the second Test in Brisbane.

Head coach Andrew McDonald stated that Cummins “ran out of time” to be fully match-ready for Perth. In his absence, Steve Smith will lead the team, with Scott Boland likely to replace Cummins in the playing XI.

Cummins has been managing this back issue since earlier this year, following the home series against the West Indies. He acknowledged that playing all five Tests of the Ashes might be challenging as he carefully manages his workload.

Despite this setback, Australia’s pace attack remains strong with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and all-rounder Cameron Green. The team will look to maintain momentum and defend the Ashes on home soil while ensuring Cummins makes a full recovery for the second Test.