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New Delhi: A back injury might rule Australia skipper Pat Cummins out of the 2025-26 Ashes series' early stages, with scans revealing an injury that calls for monitoring and careful handling.
The seamer underwent tests on hos back last week and according to a report in British publication The Telegraph it “revealed a problem that will need careful managing of his workload. sources are privately admitting the problem is worse than expected and he is a doubt for the start of the Ashes series”.
The Ashes series begins on November 21 at Perth and should Cummins shake off the problem his workload needs to be managed to ensure that he plays throughout the Ashes.
It could mean the 32-year-old would sit out the T20I series against New Zealand that starts on October 1, and the follow-up home ODI series against India.
“While officials insist there is no cause for panic, selectors are bracing for the possibility he won’t play every Test,” the report said.
Cummins hasn't played any competitive match since July 14, when Australia's Test series against the West Indies ended and the right-armer didn't take part in the white-ball series against West Indies and South Africa.
Cummins played in all five Tests against India for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with an ankle injury but now stares at the prospect of missing a Test in a second consecutive home Ashes series.
He had to sit out the Adelaide Test match of the 2021/22 Ashes, when Steve Smith led Australia to a 275-run win. Vice-captain Smith could again take over the captaincy duties should Cummins is ruled out.
“The Australia management remain optimistic he will be fit in time for the Ashes but it will be difficult for him to play every Test in an intense five-match series that will be over within 48 days while managing a back problem,” the report added.
