Pat Cummins expected to miss first Ashes Test as doubts grow over fitness for entire series

<ul><li><p>Australia captain set to be ruled out of opener against England in Perth</p></li><li><p>Star quick yet to return to bowling as he recovers from back injury</p></li></ul><p>Australia captain Pat Cummins is expected to miss the Ashes opener in Perth as doubts grow around his availability for the entire Test series against England.</p><p>Cummins has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/sep/17/pat-cummins-will-play-significant-role-in-ashes-series-andrew-mcdonald-says">sidelined with a back injury</a> that the latest scan revealed has not yet healed.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/oct/08/pat-cummins-back-injury-australia-ashes-first-test-cricket">Continue reading...</a>