Brisbane, Australia – Australia captain Pat Cummins is considered highly unlikely to be fit for the first Ashes Test against England in June, raising concerns about a potential repeat of injury setbacks that have punctuated his distinguished career.
Cummins, 32, has not bowled competitively since July due to a lumbar bone stress issue, echoing the back problems that previously stalled his progress as a young fast bowler. His Test debut in 2011 against South Africa, at age 18, saw him claim a five-wicket haul despite a heel injury, but recurring stress fractures delayed his second appearance for six years.
As being appointed Test captain following Tim Paine’s resignation before the 2021-22 Ashes series, Cummins has established himself as a leading figure in world cricket, amassing 309 Test wickets at an average of 22.10. He has proven particularly effective on home soil,capturing 177 wickets at 19.92 in Australia, and against England, with 91 wickets in just 19 matches.
In the 2023 Ashes series, Cummins was one of only two bowlers - alongside Stuart Broad – to play in all five Tests, taking 18 wickets. His leadership was instrumental in a remarkably successful 2023, culminating in victories for Australia in both the World Test Championship final and the 50-over World Cup final, both against india.
Cummins is the only captain in Test history to have won the World Test Championship, the World Cup, and an Ashes series.The current injury casts a shadow over his ability to lead Australia in their defense of the Ashes title.
