Big Blow for Australia as Cummins Is Rested: Australia captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the last two Tests of the Ashes series due to a back issue. Although he was cleared to return and even played the Adelaide Test, the team management has decided not to take any risk with his long-term fitness.
Cummins looked sharp in Adelaide, picking up three wickets in each innings, showing good rhythm and pace. However, with Australia already securing the Ashes series after that win, the medical staff felt it was the right time to rest him instead of pushing his body further.
Why Australia Took This Decision
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald explained that Cummins had “pulled up fine” after Adelaide, but the decision to rest him was planned well in advance.
The main focus is to protect Cummins from any long-term back trouble, especially with major tournaments coming up. McDonald also confirmed that Cummins is comfortable with the plan and fully supports the decision.
Boxing Day Test Not in Picture
There were initial talks around Cummins possibly featuring in the Boxing Day Test, but that option now looks unlikely. The team wants to make sure he recovers fully rather than returning too soon.
T20 World Cup Participation Still in Doubt
Cummins’ back issue has also raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. According to the team management, more medical checks and scans will be done before making a final call.
Andrew McDonald said the situation is still “quite grey” at the moment. While the team remains hopeful, there is no confirmation yet on whether Cummins will be fit in time for the tournament.
Also Read: Australia Win Ashes 3-0: Dominant Adelaide Test Seals Series
Injury Concerns Continue for Australia
Australia have struggled with injuries throughout the Ashes series. Several key players have either missed matches or played through fitness issues.
Key Injury Updates During the Ashes
| Player | Injury / Issue | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Josh Hazlewood | Side injury | Missed entire series |
| Sean Abbott | Fitness issue | Sat out matches |
| Usman Khawaja | Back spasms | Played with discomfort |
| Steve Smith | Illness | Missed time in Adelaide |
| Nathan Lyon | Hamstring injury | Set for surgery, long layoff |
With these setbacks, team balance has been a constant challenge for Australia national cricket team.
Squad Boost: New Faces Added
To strengthen the squad for the remaining matches, Australia have added a few names:
- Todd Murphy has been called up for the fourth Test.
- Jhye Richardson has been named as a potential return option in limited-overs cricket, having last played in 2021.
Australia Squad for Adelaide Test
Here is the full squad named for the Adelaide Test:
| Players |
|---|
| Steven Smith (Captain) |
| Scott Boland |
| Alex Carey |
| Brendan Doggett |
| Cameron Green |
| Travis Head |
| Josh Inglis |
| Usman Khawaja |
| Marnus Labuschagne |
| Todd Murphy |
| Michael Neser |
| Jhye Richardson |
| Mitchell Starc |
| Jake Weatherald |
| Beau Webster |
What This Means Going Forward
Resting Pat Cummins shows Australia’s long-term planning approach. With the Ashes already in hand, the focus has shifted to keeping their captain fit for future challenges, especially the T20 World Cup.
See Also: Jemimah Rodrigues to Be Named Delhi Capitals Captain
Fans will now wait anxiously for medical updates, hoping to see Cummins back in action soon—strong, fresh, and fully fit.
