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Wednesday, October 14, 2026
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Pat Cummins Set to Play a Major Role in Ashes Series

Australian cricket captain

The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.

The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.

Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.

Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.

The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of being involved.

"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors involved, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.

"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."

Previous Setbacks

The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.

There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.

He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.

Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.

Backup Options

In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.

Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.

He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."

"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.

"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."

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Written by

Melissa Hudson

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in tech innovation and creative consulting, passionate about sharing actionable insights.

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