Australia captain Pat Cummins is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming Ashes series against England despite ongoing recovery from a back stress injury, confirmed chief selector George Bailey.
Optimism Over Fitness
Bailey said the 32-year-old pacer is steadily regaining fitness and remains on track to participate in the five-Test series beginning 21 November in Perth.
“We’re positive about Pat’s progress. He’s building up well and we’re confident he’ll play a major part in the Ashes,” Bailey said. “If not in the first Test, then shortly after.”
Injury Concerns and Recovery
Cummins missed recent white-ball series against New Zealand and India after scans detected a stress issue in his lower back. The pacer, who has previously battled similar injuries in 2012, 2013, and 2015, has been working intensively to be ready for red-ball action.
Cummins himself has expressed determination to take “calculated risks” to return in time for the high-stakes series.
Leadership Backup Plans
If Cummins fails to recover for the opener, Steve Smith is likely to lead the side in Perth. Bailey added that the final call would be made closer to the match, keeping workload and long-term fitness in mind.
Green’s Precautionary Rest
Meanwhile, all-rounder Cameron Green has been rested from the ODI series against India due to mild side soreness. Bailey described the decision as “precautionary”, ensuring Green is fit to bowl in the domestic Sheffield Shield before the Ashes.
“We’ve put a lot of planning into keeping him ready as a genuine all-rounder,” Bailey added. “We just chose to handle this phase cautiously.”
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