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Pat Cummins Ruled Out of Ashes Opener as Steve Smith Takes Charge

A required four‑plus‑week bowling block puts Brisbane in play without guaranteeing his return.

Overview

  • Cricket Australia confirmed the 32-year-old will miss the Perth Test on November 21 due to a lower‑back bone‑stress injury.
  • Head coach Andrew McDonald said Cummins has resumed running and is set to start bowling this week as part of his rehabilitation.
  • Availability for the day‑night second Test at the Gabba from December 4 remains possible but uncertain.
  • Scott Boland is widely expected to join Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in Perth, with the final squad to be named next week.
  • Cummins has not bowled since July’s West Indies tour and will travel to Perth to be with the squad despite being unavailable.