Melbourne, October 10 – Ahead of Perth’s first Test in the 2025 Ashes series against England, Australian head coach Andrew McDonald gave a hopeful update on skipper Pat Cummins’ back injury.
Cummins has been sidelined since July after a back problem kept him from bowling. He only started running again earlier this month, just weeks before the Perth Test on November 21. McDonald said the bowler’s condition has improved sharply in recent days, making a return to the crease look more realistic. “Time is short, but I still think we can get him match‑ready in the next ten days,” McDonald told the ICC.
If Cummins can’t play, former captain Steve Smith could step in, and fast bowler Scott Boland would likely replace him in a lineup that already features Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. But McDonald is not giving up on the 44‑year‑old captain. He noted that the injury “ebbs and flows,” but recent checks show a positive trend: Cummins feels less sore, and his prognosis has improved.
McDonald’s confidence comes from Cummins’ ability to train for Test matches even with limited time. “We’re cutting down the prep, but I believe he’ll still perform if we give him enough game time before Perth,” he said. He added that the next week will be crucial for a final assessment.
The Ashes 2025 schedule is:
- First Test: Nov 21‑25, Perth
- Second Test: Dec 4‑8, Brisbane
- Third Test: Dec 17‑21, Adelaide
- Fourth Test: Dec 25‑29, Melbourne
- Fifth Test: Jan 3‑7, 2026, Sydney
Australia’s fan base is watching closely as the team looks to overcome a key injury and prepare for a tough series against England. Stay tuned for updates on Pat Cummins’ fitness and any squad changes before the first Test in Perth.
Source: aninews
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