Pat Cummins Faces Fitness Race for Ashes After Back Injury

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, is uncertain for the Ashes. The pace bowler is dealing with a back injury and is currently ruled out of the upcoming white-ball tour of New Zealand and India. Cummins has not bowled since the West Indies Test series. Speaking to the media, Cummins discussed his desire to captain Australia during the Ashes but emphasized that a definitive decision would be made closer to the series. He has previously battled back issues throughout his career, including a significant setback in 2018. Cummins indicated that he will monitor his condition. He is currently engaged in gym work to maintain his fitness. The first Ashes Test is scheduled to commence in Perth on November 21. Australia last retained the urn in England in 2023 after the series concluded in a 2-2 draw, and in the 2021-22 home series, Australia won 4-0, with Cummins taking 21 wickets.