Pat Cummins has been sidelined since the West Indies Test series due to a back injury. According to a recent report by The Age, Australia’s Test captain is set to miss the opening match of the Ashes 2025-26 in Perth — and there’s even a possibility he could be ruled out of the entire series.
Pat Cummins, who sustained the injury during the West Indies series, recently underwent medical scans, but the results were not encouraging. Although doctors confirmed that the stress “hot spot” in his back is healing, it hasn’t recovered enough for him to resume bowling.
As a result, Pat Cummins is almost certain to miss at least the early part of the Ashes. Even with a smooth recovery, his chances of returning for the latter stages of the series remain slim. This development is a major setback for Australia, who now risk being without both their captain and their frontline fast bowler.
Steve Smith Set to Lead Australia in Ashes 2025–26 if Pat Cummins Misses the Series
If Pat Cummins is unavailable for the upcoming Ashes 2025–26, vice-captain Steve Smith is expected to take over as Australia’s skipper. Smith has successfully led the side on multiple occasions in Cummins’ absence and will be eager to make an impact, guiding Australia in their bid to retain the Ashes, which ended in a draw last time around.
Meanwhile, with Pat Cummins likely sidelined, Scott Boland appears set to fill the role of Australia’s third fast bowler in Perth, joining Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. Boland, known for his accuracy and bounce, will have a golden opportunity to shine in one of the biggest Test series in world cricket.
Australia have dominated the Ashes in recent years, holding the urn since 2018. The hosts will once again enter the series as favourites, with England yet to win a Test match on Australian soil since 2011.
However, without their captain Pat Cummins, England may sense an opening. The Ben Stokes-led side has already announced their squad and, with their aggressive “Bazball” style of play, the stage is set for an electrifying Ashes showdown.
