Pat Cummins Reveals Close Call with Ashes Selection Due to Injury

Pat Cummins has disclosed that he was on the verge of withdrawing from all matches in the upcoming Ashes series due to a stress injury in his lower back. The Australian Test captain, who spoke candidly about his condition, expressed concern just weeks ago about his ability to compete when the series kicks off in Perth on November 21, 2025.

While Cummins has reported improvement in his symptoms, he acknowledged that he remains in a race against time to regain full fitness. He has begun running again and hopes to start bowling within two weeks, which could potentially allow him to participate in the second or third Test. However, medical staff have advised that he should be bowling consistently for about a month prior to returning to match play.

Reflecting on his state just a fortnight ago, Cummins admitted, “I was probably fearing the series, really.” At that time, he felt stiffness and soreness as he attempted to implement new training techniques. “I know how many steps you need to tick off with bowling at high pace, 20 overs a day without pain. It felt a long way away a few weeks ago. Whereas now it feels a little bit closer,” he added.

The skipper has had a relatively injury-free run over the past seven home summers, making this back issue particularly concerning as Australia prepares for a pivotal series against England. Cummins mentioned that the tightness in his back is easing, and he is optimistic about transitioning to bowling soon.

Scott Boland has been named as the likely replacement should Cummins be unable to play. Despite facing criticism from English commentators for his past performances, Cummins has defended Boland, emphasizing that conditions in England were vastly different from those in Australia. “You couldn’t get pitches that were more different to Australia. Here, there is a bit more zip and bounce,” he said.

Cummins supports Boland’s experience, noting, “He has been playing for four summers now, and every time he plays, he seems to be super effective.” He is confident that Boland’s skills will be beneficial in the Ashes series.

As the countdown to the first Test continues, Cummins is focused on his recovery, aided by a dedicated medical team. He stated, “The last couple of weeks have been good. I’ve felt a bit more confident that everything is on track.” With the Ashes series looming, all eyes will be on Cummins as he works to make a swift return to the field.