Australia have received a major blow ahead of the Ashes 2025-26 as captain Pat Cummins looks set to miss the opening Test in Perth. According to a report in The Age, Cummins has “no chance” of being fit for the series opener, and there is a growing possibility that he could miss the entire five-match series against England.

The fast bowler is currently recovering from a lumbar bone stress injury sustained after Australia’s West Indies tour earlier this year. The injury had already ruled him out of the upcoming home white-ball series against India. Recent scans indicate that Cummins’ injury has not fully healed, raising concerns over his availability for one of cricket’s most high-profile contests.

Cummins has previously expressed determination to regain full fitness to participate in the Ashes, stating that he is focused on rehabilitation to ensure maximum participation. Terming the possibility of missing the start of the Ashes as “devastating,” the Australian skipper remained optimistic.

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“We’ll be doing everything we can to be right for that, [and] make a few decisions a little bit closer, but [I’m] confident we’ll do the rehab right and give it a good crack,” Pat Cummins said. He added, “It’s a big Ashes series, it doesn’t get much bigger, so you’re willing to be aggressive and take a few risks to try to play as much of the Tests as you can. I’ve had a really good run as fast bowling goes… hopefully get this right and don’t miss too much cricket.”

Not the news Aussie fans wanted to hear…

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With Cummins potentially sidelined, vice-captain Steve Smith could lead Australia in the opening Test and possibly the series. The pace attack may also see Scott Boland join Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood as the third seamer, ensuring Australia still fields a competitive bowling lineup despite their captain’s absence.

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This injury concern has added another layer of uncertainty for Australia, who will aim to defend the Ashes on home soil starting November 21, with the cricketing world watching closely for updates on Cummins’ recovery and the team’s final playing XI.