Australian captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test against England due to a lower back stress injury. The series opener is scheduled to begin on November 21, 2025, in Perth.
Team management confirmed that Cummins has not yet fully recovered and will miss the match as a precaution.
In his absence, Steve Smith will step in as captain, a familiar role he has handled in the past. Cricket Australia stated that Cummins has begun light running sessions but has not resumed bowling,
making him unfit for the opening Test. However, he is expected to return for the second match in Brisbane if his recovery progresses well.
Cummins’ absence is a big blow for Australia, especially given his key role with both ball and leadership. Fans are hoping he will recover quickly to rejoin the squad for the rest of the high-stakes Ashes series.
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