Australia’s skipper Pat Cummins is doubtful for the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21st due to his back injury. The injury is concerning about his presence for the opening match, and the team is considering backup plans. Head coach Andrew McDonald has shared the update on Cummins recovery. If he doesn’t recover in time, they will prepare alternatives.
Cummins Injury and Update
Australian captain Pat Cummins is a key player of the team. But his lower back injury puts the team under more pressure. After the scan showed the injury had not fully healed and he was ruled out of the match. Currently, he needs rehabilitation. Cummins missed the recent practice deliveries and was restricted to fitness training.
Australian coach Andrew McDonald has provided an update on Pat’s back injury. He added his decision on Cummins's presence in the first Test against England.
“Patty and I have spoken about that type of timeframe. It’s a big couple of weeks, we’ve added some variables into his training in the last couple of weeks and had a positive result there,” McDonald said.
“There’s some positive signs speaking to Patty over the last few days. He’s a lot more optimistic. Those who have been through this type of injury (say) these things ebb and flow. A couple of weeks ago, did he think he was a chance (to play in Perth)? Potentially not, he was a little bit sore. Then you flip it forward two weeks and there’s a lot more positivity. We’ve still got a little bit to go.”
“One of the benefits with Patty is that he has had the ability to prepare for Test matches off shortened preparations. So if it was to be shrunken down, we’d be very confident that he would still be able to perform in the first Test,” he continued. (Source: FOX SPORTS)
Who Might Replace Him?
As captain Pat Cummins is likely to miss the first Ashes series, Steve Smith, the vice-captain, is expected to captain the side. This would be a temporary leadership. For the replacement of pace bowling spot, Australia might consider Scott Boland, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. Boland has a strong record in Test matches, so the selectors view him as a perfect replacement for Cummins.
Squad Implications
The absence of Cummins could affect the series. However, Australia should consider their workload, captaincy, and adaptation when playing against one of the strongest cricket teams. Starc’s pace and Hazelwood’s movement will boost the team. It also helps with seam bowling depth. Selectors may evaluate both experience and recent Test performances when deciding on a replacement.