Australia’s Test skipper Pat Cummins remains optimistic about featuring in all five matches of the upcoming Ashes 2025-26, despite his ongoing recovery from injury. The much-anticipated series between Australia and England is scheduled from November 21, 2025, to January 8, 2026, with five Tests spread across iconic venues in Australia.
Cummins, who last led the Baggy Greens to the World Test Championship title in 2023, has been sidelined due to a back injury that already forced him to miss the upcoming assignments against New Zealand and India. However, the pace ace believes that the Ashes schedule, which includes long gaps between Tests, could work in his favour.
Speaking to Cricket.com.au, Pat Cummins admitted that while he is unlikely to play a warm-up game before the series, he may link up with Australia’s ODI squad beforehand to continue working with medical staff. His last competitive appearance for Australia came in July against the West Indies.
ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar Urges India To Rest Jasprit Bumrah Ahead of Super Four Stage
“The aim is five. Every summer you kind of aim for five,” Pat Cummins said. “This one might be a little bit different because you’re coming in with a different preparation, but the starting goal is still five. As we get closer, we’ll probably talk through more realistic situations. For now, the plan is to be ready for the whole series.”
Friday September 19, Pat Cummins update #124:
Is currently aiming to play all five #Ashes Tests this summer 🤞 pic.twitter.com/G3STIgtGQL
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) September 19, 2025
Cummins highlighted the eight-day breaks between the first three Tests as a key factor that could help him manage the workload. However, he also acknowledged that Australia’s pace attack may not remain unchanged throughout the series.
“Most years, at least one of the bowlers goes down,” Pat Cummins explained. “Joshy (Hazlewood) missed the back half last year. Conditions change, too, and sometimes you just need a fresh bowler who can deliver 40 overs without blinking in a Test match.”
ALSO READ: Robin Uthappa Reveals Frustration Over Test Selection Misquote That Strained Ties With Karun Nair
With the Ashes fast approaching, Australia will be banking on their captain’s fitness to spearhead their bid for another memorable series win against England.
2025-26 Ashes series schedule
- 1st Test: November 21-25, Perth Stadium
- 2nd Test: December 4-8, The Gabba, Brisbane (D/N)
- 3rd Test: December 17-21: Adelaide Oval
- 4th Test: December 26-30: MCG, Melbourne
- 5th Test: January 4-8: SCG, Sydney
