Australia’s preparations for the upcoming Ashes series have hit a roadblock, with Pat Cummins still recovering from a back injury that has ruled him out of the upcoming ODI series against India. Chief selector George Bailey confirmed that if Cummins fails to regain full fitness in time for the first Ashes Test on November 21 in Perth, Steve Smith will once again step in as captain — a role he has successfully handled in the past.

“If Pat doesn’t play, Smudge [Smith] will captain. That’s business as usual for us. That formula has worked,” George Bailey told the Sydney Morning Herald, emphasizing the selection panel’s trust in Smith’s leadership.

Despite his injury, Cummins remains closely involved with the squad’s planning and preparation. Bailey highlighted the skipper’s commitment, saying, “Regardless of whether he’s playing, Pat’s keen to be around because he’ll be rehabbing, bowling, and staying connected with the group. The communication between Pat and Steve will continue as usual.”

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Smith, who recently returned from a short break in New York, wasted no time getting back into rhythm. He began batting sessions at the Cricket New South Wales headquarters just a day after landing.

George Bailey noted Smith’s dedication to his preparation, saying, “Steve landed and was batting the next day. We’ve tailored everyone’s prep individually, and he’ll be ready to go. There’s no concern about his readiness.”

Adding to Australia’s worries, Cameron Green — a key all-rounder in the Test setup — has also been sidelined due to a minor side strain picked up during Western Australia’s Sheffield Shield opener. The 26-year-old, who only recently recovered from spinal surgery, was withdrawn from the white-ball series against India as a precautionary measure.

Bailey reassured fans that Green’s injury isn’t serious, describing it as “very minor.” Speaking to ABC, he said, “Even minor side strains can take four to six weeks, but we’re being conservative. The main goal is to have Green fit and firing for the Ashes.” He also confirmed that Green’s bowling workload would be gradually increased over the coming days.

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Australia’s injury list doesn’t end there. Beau Webster (ankle), Lance Morris (out for the summer), and Jhye Richardson (recovering from shoulder surgery) are also in varying stages of recovery. With Cummins’ potential absence and Green’s limited availability, Australia’s bowling depth will be thoroughly tested as they gear up to face a confident England side in what promises to be another fierce Ashes battle.