Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins has provided an update on his fitness ahead of the Ashes series, revealing it is “probably less likely than likely” that he will be ready for the first Test in Perth on November 21. Cummins has been recovering from a lower back stress injury sustained after the West Indies tour in July, and recent scans have not shown the progress team officials had hoped for.
Speaking at the launch of Kayo Sports’ Summer of Cricket in Sydney, Cummins expressed his determination to return early in the series, although he has yet to resume bowling in training. “I’m running today, and every second day,” Cummins stated. “Each run is getting a little longer and then we kind of get into bowling next week.”
The announcement comes as the Australian team prepares for a crucial Ashes series, with Cummins’ leadership and bowling prowess seen as vital components. Despite his optimism, Cummins acknowledged the challenge of returning to full fitness in time, noting, “Four weeks is pretty tight, but I reckon somewhere around that mark.”
Injury Concerns and Recovery Timeline
Cummins has been candid about the physical challenges he faces. “A little bit stiff from the injury, but also kind of because it hasn’t been used for a while,” he explained. “Each session you do a little bit more of a run and make sure you pull up all right. I’m actually feeling pretty good at the moment.”
The Australian captain emphasized the importance of a thorough preparation before returning to Test cricket. “You want at least probably a month in the nets,” he said. “If you’re playing a Test match, you want to make sure you’re right to bowl 20 overs in a day and you don’t really have to think about it.”
“It’s pretty hard to go from not bowling at all to playing five Tests, so first step is trying to have a shot at being right.” – Pat Cummins
Selection Dilemmas and Team Dynamics
With Cummins’ participation in doubt, the Australian team faces selection challenges, particularly in the bowling department. The potential absence of their skipper places added pressure on all-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster to deliver with the ball. Cummins hinted at the possibility of both playing in Perth, stating, “I don’t see why you can’t have two all-rounders.”
Meanwhile, the opening batting position alongside Usman Khawaja remains a point of discussion. Marnus Labuschagne has impressed in domestic cricket, and Cummins praised his proactive approach. “I think he’s pretty well suited to the top order,” Cummins said. “Three hundreds, I think in his last four knocks, and proven at this level.”
Historical Context and Personal Reflections
Cummins’ injury comes as a rare setback in his career since returning to the Test side in 2017. He was plagued by injuries early on, with a six-year gap between his first and second Tests, but has since enjoyed a relatively injury-free run. Reflecting on his current situation, Cummins said, “Some days I’m kind of annoyed because it’s the Ashes and a big summer. Other days, I’m a little more realistic.”
“The last seven or eight years, I’ve had uninterrupted home summers so I’ve had a really good run as a fast bowler.” – Pat Cummins
As the Ashes series looms, Cummins remains hopeful of contributing to Australia’s campaign. “With such a big summer ahead, you want to be in the mixer,” he admitted. “Even with the India one day series and T20 series, I wish I was a part of that. If it’s not to be, it’s part of cricket getting injuries.”
The situation underscores the unpredictable nature of sports injuries and the resilience required to overcome them. As Cummins races against time, the Australian cricket community watches closely, hoping for a swift recovery and a successful Ashes series.
