Is Cummins Ready to Bowl Again Ahead of the Ashes?
Synopsis
As the Ashes series approaches, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins is taking crucial steps toward recovery, beginning to bowl in the nets. The pressure is on as he battles a back injury, aiming to make a timely return. With the series opener in Perth fast approaching, all eyes are on Cummins and the Australian team's preparations.
Key Takeaways
Pat Cummins is actively bowling in nets as he recovers from injury.
He has been ruled out of the first Test against England .
Steve Smith will captain the team in Cummins' absence.
His return will depend on performance in a four-week bowling block.
Australia's squad announcement for the opening Test is expected next week.
New Delhi, Oct 29 (NationPress) Pat Cummins, the Australian Test captain, is making strides to return ahead of the Ashes series by bowling in the nets as he works through his recovery from an injury incurred during the Caribbean tour in June.
Cummins has been officially sidelined for the series opener against England in Perth due to a lumbar bone stress injury affecting his back. Steve Smith will take over as captain for the first Test at Perth.
Head coach Andrew McDonald previously confirmed that Cummins would resume bowling this week. Reports from Sky News Australia indicate that he was spotted bowling at NSW Cricket Central in Sydney Olympic Park, monitored by key staff from New South Wales.
In Cummins’ absence, Scott Boland appears to be the most logical replacement alongside regulars Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. The announcement of Australia's squad for the opening Test is expected next week.
The fast bowler's participation in the second Test in Brisbane will depend on his performance during a four-week bowling block he is required to complete prior to returning.
Should he miss the Brisbane Test and if Australia leads the series 2-0, the decision may be made to rest him for the third Test in Adelaide to avoid the risk of rushing him back.
Cummins has historically posed challenges for England, taking 91 wickets across the last four series and earning the title of top wicket-taker in the 2017-18, 2019, and 2021-22 series.
England has not secured an Ashes series victory since 2015 and has not won a Test match on Australian soil since 2011.
bc/vi
Point of View
The return of Pat Cummins is pivotal not just for the team, but also for the morale of Australian cricket fans. His expertise and leadership are essential as the team gears up for a challenging Ashes series. The decision to ensure his full recovery reflects a commitment to quality and performance, which should resonate positively with supporters.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Pat Cummins sustain?
Pat Cummins sustained a lumbar bone stress injury to his back during a tour of the Caribbean.
When is the first Test of the Ashes series?
The first Test of the Ashes series is scheduled to take place in Perth.
Who will captain Australia in Cummins' absence?
Steve Smith will assume the role of captain for the first Test in Perth.
What is the likelihood of Cummins playing in the second Test?
Cummins' chances of playing in the second Test depend on his performance during a four-week bowling block he must complete.
How many wickets has Cummins taken against England in recent series?
Cummins has taken 91 wickets across the last four series against England.
