Pat Cummins Ruled Out Of First Ashes Test; Steve Smith To Lead Australia. In preparation for the Ashes series in 2025–26, Australia has hit a considerable hurdle, as captain Pat Cummins has officially been ruled out of the first Test at Perth due to an ongoing back issue. The Cricket Australia medical team has confirmed that Cummins has not recovered from a lumbar stress injury he suffered earlier in 2023.
With the first Test about to start on November 21 at Perth Stadium, head coach Andrew McDonald has stated the team “ran out of time” to get their captain ready for the opener. Steve Smith will captain the team in the opening Test, returning to the role in the longest format for the first time since 2023. Cummins is expected to travel with the tour group, but he may return for the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane on December 4.
A blow to Australia’s plans
Cummins’s absence will be a big loss for Australia as a bowler and leader. Cummins’ leadership saw Australia retain the Ashes in 2023 and win the ICC World Test Championship Trophy. Smith’s experience leading the side is critical to keeping the team focused and balanced.
Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood form the pace attack alongside the probable replacement for fast bowler Scott Boland in the playing XI. After the unfortunate succession of events, McDonald remained confident of the squad’s depth, saying, “The group is prepared and prepared to play England.”
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As for England, Cummins’ injury offers them an early advantage they will look to build on in the contest in Perth. However, with Smith in charge and despite Australia’s bowling depth, the first test represents an exhilarating contest.
