Pat Cummins Ruled Out of First Ashes Test, Steve Smith to Captain Australia

Australia will be without captain and strike bowler Pat Cummins for the first Ashes Test against England in Perth next month, Cricket Australia confirmed on Monday. Former skipper Steve Smith will lead the side in his absence.

Cummins, 32, has been sidelined since July with a lower-back injury and was already a major doubt for the series opener, which begins on November 21 at Perth Stadium. Cricket Australia said in a statement that the fast bowler has now resumed running and is expected to start bowling again soon, raising hopes he could return in time for the second Test — a day-night match in Brisbane starting December 4.

“Pat continues to make excellent progress in his rehabilitation and will soon return to bowling,” the statement said. “However, he will not be available for selection for the first Test as a precaution.”

The absence of Cummins is a blow to Australia as they look to begin their Ashes defence strongly on home soil. Since making his Ashes debut in 2017-18, Cummins has been a constant presence in the series, playing a pivotal role in helping Australia reclaim and retain the urn over the past six years.

Cricket Australia has yet to name its squad for the series, but selectors are expected to call on Scott Boland to fill the vacancy in the pace attack. Boland, 36, is set to join Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc as part of a formidable pace trio for the opening match.

Despite limited Test appearances, Boland has proven a consistent performer whenever given the opportunity. Known for his accuracy and ability to extract bounce on Australia’s hard pitches, he has taken 62 wickets in 14 Tests at an average of just 16.53.

Smith’s return to the captaincy adds further intrigue to the series. The 35-year-old, who was removed as captain in 2018 following the infamous ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, has since rebuilt his reputation and led the team on six occasions during Cummins’ previous absences.

Australia will host further Ashes Tests in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney over the Christmas and New Year period as they aim to retain the urn once again.

Although Cummins’ absence will be keenly felt, team officials remain optimistic that he will return to full fitness later in the series. “We’re confident Pat will play a major role as the Ashes progresses,” a team source said. “His rehabilitation is on track, and we’re taking a cautious approach to ensure he’s fully ready.”