Australia’s skipper, Pat Cummins, is expected to return to Test cricket in the second Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. Cummins has been out of action since July 2025 due to a lower back issue and has been carefully managing his recovery. While it has been confirmed that Cummins will miss the opening Test in Perth, his availability for the rest of the series remains uncertain as the team is cautious about rushing his return. Cummins expressed optimism about his progress but mentioned that a final decision on his participation will be made closer to the second Test.
“The positive thing is that I’m feeling good, and my body is in great shape. We are looking at the second Test as a viable option. I will have a good bowl in Perth to assess my condition,” Cummins stated on November 6.
Although Cummins’ comeback in Brisbane seems likely, there are concerns that he may not play in all five matches of the series due to Australia’s tight schedule. With only short breaks between the Tests, managing Cummins’ workload effectively poses a challenge for team management. Cummins acknowledged the demanding nature of the series, highlighting that playing back-to-back Tests with heavy bowling might not be feasible.
“I am eager to play as much as possible. However, if I have to bowl extensively in one match and then face another shortly after, it could be too much,” Cummins explained. “I am focusing on getting fully fit, and hopefully, I can participate in most of the series.”
In the previous Ashes series in Australia, Cummins led his team to a comprehensive 4-0 victory over England. In the recent Ashes series in England, the teams ended in a 2-2 draw, with Australia narrowly retaining the urn after a fierce challenge from Ben Stokes and his side.