Is Pat Cummins Out of the India and NZ Series to Prepare for the Ashes?
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Synopsis
Australia's Test and ODI captain, Pat Cummins, has been sidelined from the upcoming white-ball series against India and New Zealand due to a lower back injury. His rehabilitation is being strategically managed to ensure he's fully fit for the Ashes. Can he recover in time for the crucial Test series?
Key Takeaways
- Pat Cummins is sidelined due to a lower back injury.
- His rehabilitation is focused on preparing for the Ashes.
- Upcoming series against India and New Zealand will proceed without him.
- Medical staff are optimistic about his recovery.
- Cricket Australia emphasizes long-term fitness over immediate participation.
Melbourne, Sep 2 (NationPress) Australia’s Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the forthcoming white-ball matches against India and New Zealand due to a lower back injury. Cricket Australia has confirmed that his recovery is being closely monitored to ensure he achieves optimal fitness ahead of the Ashes.
The Australian team is scheduled to face New Zealand in a three-match T20I series commencing on October 1, followed by a home series against India that includes three ODIs from October 19 to 25, and five T20Is from October 29 to November 8. The eagerly awaited Ashes series will kick off on November 21 against England in Perth.
“Cummins will not participate in the upcoming limited-overs series against India or New Zealand and will continue his rehabilitation plan, with a return to bowling being assessed as part of his Ashes preparation,” Cricket Australia stated.
Since the Test series in the Caribbean, Cummins has not played any matches, where his bowling workload was intentionally limited. He missed the five-match T20I series against the West Indies and subsequent fixtures against South Africa. This strategic decision was made to allow him a 10-week conditioning period in preparation for the Australian Test summer, akin to his preparation last year.
However, after returning from the Caribbean, Cummins reported back soreness that has lingered longer than expected. A routine scan performed on Monday showed indications of bone stress—commonly referred to as a hot spot—which can sometimes signal a stress fracture. Fortunately, no fracture was found in his lower back, and the medical team remains hopeful that he will recover in time for the first Test of the Ashes against England.
“There was always a de-load planned for him following the West Indies Test series, and he reported some ongoing back soreness as part of that, and (the scan) identified a bit of lumbar bone stress,” said George Bailey, chair of selectors.
“The emphasis for him has been and will continue to be on preparing for the Ashes Test series. There will be further management and rehabilitation around it. But regarding the Ashes plan, I don't foresee significant changes. There still appears to be ample time. We fully expect Pat to be ready for the first Test.”
Point of View
We recognize the strategic importance of Pat Cummins to the Australian cricket team. His absence from the white-ball series versus India and New Zealand is a calculated measure to ensure he is in peak condition for the Ashes. While fans may be disappointed, the focus on long-term fitness is vital for the team's success.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury has Pat Cummins sustained?
Pat Cummins has sustained a lower back injury that has led to his exclusion from the upcoming white-ball series.
When is the Ashes series starting?
The Ashes series is set to commence on November 21 against England in Perth.
Will Cummins return in time for the Ashes?
The medical team is optimistic that Pat Cummins will recover in time for the first Test of the Ashes series.
How is Cricket Australia managing Cummins' rehabilitation?
Cricket Australia is carefully managing Cummins' rehabilitation with a focus on ensuring he achieves full fitness ahead of the Ashes.
What was the result of Cummins' recent scan?
A routine scan revealed signs of bone stress, but fortunately, no fracture was detected in his lower back.
