Cummins ‘unlikely’ to be fit for first Ashes Test

Australia captain Pat Cummins has admitted that he is “less likely than likely” to be fit for the opening Ashes Test against England in Perth next month.

The 32-year-old pacer has been recovering from a back stress injury and hasn’t played a competitive match since July. Though he has resumed running, bowling practice is yet to begin in his rehabilitation schedule.

“I wouldn’t put a percentage on it, but I’d say probably less likely than likely,” Cummins said. “We get into bowling preparation next week, so maybe a couple of weeks before actually bowling on turf. But each session has been feeling better and better.”

Tight Timeline for Recovery
Australia coach Andrew McDonald earlier mentioned that Cummins would need at least four weeks of bowling preparation to stand a realistic chance of making the Perth Test, which starts on November 21.

Cummins agreed that he would require at least a month in the nets before returning to full match fitness. “If you play a Test match, you want to make sure you’re right to bowl 20 overs in a day and not think about it. Four weeks is pretty tight, but that’s around the mark,” he added.

Doubt Over Second Test Participation
Given the recovery timeline, Cummins’ availability for the second Test in Brisbane on December 4 also remains uncertain. If he fails to recover in time, Steve Smith is expected to lead the side, with Scott Boland likely to join the pace attack.

Ashes Stakes High for Both Teams
Australia have held the Ashes since 2018, while England are chasing their first Test win down under since 2011. England skipper Ben Stokes is also racing against time to recover from a shoulder injury sustained during the series against India.

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