MELBOURNE – Australia are hopeful that captain Pat Cummins will feature in the upcoming Ashes series, despite lingering fitness concerns over his recovery from a back stress injury, chief selector George Bailey said on Saturday.
Cummins, 32, has not yet resumed bowling, making him a doubt for the first Test in Perth starting November 21. The fast bowler admitted earlier this week that he was unlikely to play the opener and remained uncertain for the second Test in Brisbane. Australia coach Andrew McDonald had earlier stated that Cummins needed to begin bowling at least four weeks before the first Test to avoid aggravating his injury.
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Bailey, however, struck a hopeful tone: “He’s building up and optimistic about it,” Bailey told reporters. “We’re really confident he’s going to play a major part. Hopefully it’s the first Test — if not, then we’ll pick it up.” In a further blow to Australia’s preparations, all-rounder Cameron Green has been ruled out of the ODI series against India due to low-grade side soreness sustained during training.
Bailey clarified that the injury was minor and the decision was precautionary, ensuring Green’s full recovery before the Ashes. “It’s conservative, but the goal is to have him ready as an all-rounder for the first Test,” Bailey said. Green is expected to return to domestic Shield cricket in the coming weeks.
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Despite the uncertainty, selectors are confident in the squad’s depth, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland available to lead the pace attack if Cummins misses the opener. Australia’s Ashes campaign begins in Perth on November 21, followed by the Brisbane Test, before the series moves to Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.