Australia will be without captain Pat Cummins for the opening Ashes Test against England in Perth as the fast bowler continues his recovery from a back stress injury. Vice-captain Steve Smith will lead the team in Cummins’s absence, marking his seventh time captaining the side since the leadership change in 2021.
Cummins has not featured in competitive cricket since Australia’s 3-0 win over the West Indies in July. Despite progress in his rehabilitation, the 32-year-old has not bowled for months and will miss the first Test starting on November 21 at Optus Stadium. He has resumed running and is expected to begin bowling soon, raising hopes he could return for the second Test in Brisbane on December 4.
Head coach Andrew McDonald expressed optimism that Cummins could regain full fitness in time for the Gabba Test, noting that the fast bowler prefers at least four weeks of preparation before returning to competitive action. “It takes four-plus weeks to get him up and running, and we’ve simply run out of time for the opener,” McDonald said, adding that Cummins will travel with the team to Perth to remain involved with the squad.
Smith’s return to captaincy provides stability and experience. The star batsman has previously led Australia with success, boasting an impressive batting average of nearly 69 when captaining, compared to 49.9 otherwise. After a six-week break in New York, Smith will warm up by playing for New South Wales in two Sheffield Shield matches ahead of the Ashes.
Cummins’s absence is likely to open the door for Scott Boland to join the pace attack alongside Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Boland has been highly effective when called upon, claiming 62 wickets in just 14 Tests at an average of 16.53. His inclusion is expected to maintain Australia’s bowling strength despite the skipper’s setback.
While Cummins’s absence is a significant blow, Australia remains optimistic that their captain will return in time to make an impact in the rest of the series. His leadership and skill with the ball will be vital as the team looks to retain the Ashes on home soil.
