Is Cummins Out for the First Ashes Test? Smith to Captain Australia!
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant development for Australian cricket, Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test against England. With the series opener set for November 21, Steve Smith steps in as captain, bringing his experience to the forefront. Can the team rally together in Cummins’ absence? Discover the latest insights here!
Key Takeaways
- Pat Cummins ruled out of first Ashes Test.
- Steve Smith steps in as captain.
- First Test against England kicks off on November 21.
- Hope for Cummins' return in the second Test on December 4.
- Scott Boland likely to replace Cummins in Perth.
Canberra, Oct 27 (NationPress) Pat Cummins has officially been excluded from participating in the opening match of the series against England in Perth. Former captain Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the first Test, which is scheduled to commence on November 21.
Cummins had expressed hopes of returning to bowling at least four weeks prior to his comeback, yet he has not resumed bowling as he continues to heal from the back stress injury sustained during the Caribbean tour in June.
Smith, who has captained Australia in 40 Test matches, last led the team in February during a successful 2-0 series victory in Sri Lanka.
Coach Andrew McDonald remains optimistic that the 32-year-old fast bowler will be fit for the second Test in Brisbane, which begins on December 4.
“We’ve been monitoring the situation for a while,” McDonald told reporters in Canberra. “Given the nature of the injury, it's unpredictable, and we are approaching it on a day-by-day basis.”
“Unfortunately, we've run out of time. We noted a week ago that he would need four-plus weeks to be ready. Regrettably, the timeline has not aligned, but we remain hopeful for the second Test match,” he added.
“He will begin bowling this week, which is a significant milestone. That was the crucial factor we wanted to achieve. We are on the path to that second Test match, and we are very positive about the outcome.”
McDonald also mentioned that Cummins will join the Test squad for the trip to Perth next month. “Pat will be with the group in Perth … and it will likely lead to questions about why he isn't playing there,” stated the coach.
Additionally, McDonald acknowledged that Scott Boland, who boasts an impressive average of 12.63 with the ball at home, is the leading candidate to fill in for Cummins.
“Losing your captain isn't ideal, but having Scott Boland as a potential replacement is a strong position to be in,” said McDonald.
“Ideally, we want our captain available for stability and decision-making. But Steve Smith will seamlessly step into that role,” he concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the challenges faced by the Australian team following the absence of their captain, Pat Cummins. While Steve Smith's leadership brings stability, the team must adapt to the changing dynamics. The focus now shifts to the resilience and depth of the squad as they prepare for the highly anticipated Ashes series.
NationPress
27/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Pat Cummins out of the first Ashes Test?
Pat Cummins is out due to a back stress injury he sustained during the Caribbean tour in June. He has not yet resumed bowling.
When is the first Ashes Test scheduled?
The first Ashes Test is set to take place on November 21 in Perth.
Who will captain Australia in the first Test?
Steve Smith will lead Australia in the first Test against England.
Is there a chance Cummins will play in the second Test?
Coach Andrew McDonald is hopeful that Cummins will be fit for the second Test starting on December 4 in Brisbane.
Who is likely to replace Cummins in the bowling attack?
Scott Boland is expected to be the leading candidate to step in for Cummins in Perth.
