Is Cummins Likely to Feature in the Ashes Opener in Perth?
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Synopsis
As the Ashes draw near, Australia's Test captain Cummins shares his recovery journey from a back injury. Will he be ready for the series opener in Perth? Find out what he has to say about his training and readiness for the big match!
Key Takeaways
- Cummins is recovering from a lumbar back injury.
- He has not played since the Caribbean Test tour.
- He plans to resume bowling drills soon.
- His outlook for the Ashes is uncertain but hopeful.
- He aims to lead Australia in upcoming tournaments.
Sydney, Oct 13 (NationPress) Australia's Test captain has given an update regarding his recovery from lumbar back stress as he prepares for the Ashes. He stated that he is "less likely than likely" to participate in the series opener in Perth, scheduled for November 21, as he begins to intensify his training regimen with the aim of returning to bowling.
Cummins has been facing a back issue recently and has not taken the field since the Test tour of the Caribbean, where he had considerably lower bowling workloads than normal.
Following scans that indicated lumbar bone stress in his lower back, he was sidelined for the three white-ball series against New Zealand and India.
However, Cummins resumed running last week and intends to initiate bowling drills next week. Aware that he is in a race against time to make it to the first ICC World Test Championship match against England, he still considers himself to have an outside chance of being fit.
"I'd estimate it's probably less likely than likely. But we still have some time. Ideally, I'd want at least a month in the nets," Cummins told reporters at the Kayo Sports Summer of Cricket launch on Monday.
"I'm running today and doing so every second day, gradually increasing the duration of each run, and next week I’ll start bowling preparation. I’m likely a couple of weeks away from actually putting on my spikes and bowling on the turf. But I’ve had a productive couple of weeks. Each session improves," he added.
Cummins is optimistic that his back injury will not pose long-term issues and he aims to participate in as many Ashes Tests as possible, alongside leading Australia at the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year.
"This is a back injury that I haven’t had for around seven or eight years, during which I’ve played a significant amount of cricket," Cummins remarked.
"Reflecting back to when I was about 20 and faced this injury, I was somewhat apprehensive regarding my body’s capacity. However, I now understand that if I manage this properly, I shouldn’t have to worry about it upon my return. I hope to play as much, if not more, cricket than I have in the last few years."
Point of View
It is crucial to provide insights into the challenges athletes face, especially when it comes to injuries. Cummins' situation reflects the reality many athletes endure, balancing recovery with the pressures of performance. Our coverage aims to inform and engage readers by highlighting the resilience of sports figures like Cummins, particularly as the Ashes series approaches.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury is Cummins recovering from?
Cummins is recovering from lumbar back stress, which has kept him off the field since the Test tour of the Caribbean.
When is the Ashes series opener scheduled?
The Ashes series opener is set for November 21 in Perth.
Is Cummins likely to play in the Ashes?
Cummins has indicated that he is 'less likely than likely' to play in the opener, as he ramps up his training.
What steps is Cummins taking to recover?
Cummins has resumed running and plans to start bowling drills soon, aiming for a return to full fitness.
What are Cummins' long-term plans regarding his injury?
Cummins believes his back injury won't be a long-term concern, and he intends to participate in as many Ashes Tests as possible.
