Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has provided an important update on captain Pat Cummins’ recovery ahead of the Ashes, which begins on 21 November in Perth.
The fast bowler has been out of action since July due to a back injury, raising concerns about his availability for the first Test. McDonald said the team remains hopeful that Cummins can recover in time to lead Australia in the opening match.
“Myself and Patty have spoken about that sort of timeframe,” McDonald told cricket.com.au. He also explained that rushing his return could introduce “other risk factors – a) you’re not skill-ready, b) soft tissue injuries then become a real risk.” The former Australian cricketer added that sustaining such an injury early in a long series like the Ashes would complicate recovery, so the team is being cautious about bringing him back too soon.
If Cummins is unable to play, Scott Boland is the most likely replacement in a bowling attack that will feature Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon. Steve Smith will be the stand-in captain.
Despite the uncertainty, McDonald said there have been positive signs regarding Cummins’ progress.
“There are some positive signs, speaking to Patty over the last few days. He’s a lot more optimistic,” he observed.
The coach shared that Cummins’ condition has improved recently, giving the team greater hope. “A couple of weeks ago, did he think he was a chance [to play in Perth]? Potentially not… Then you fast-forward two weeks and there’s a lot more positivity,” McDonald added.
According to multiple reports in the Australian media, Cummins is all but ruled out of the Ashes series opener. While McDonald remains hopeful about his availability, he is also wary of risking the premier pacer and captain.
In six weeks’ time, Australia will take on England at Optus Stadium in Perth.
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