Australian skipper Pat Cummins might miss out on the 3-match home ODI series against India due to recent back scans, which aren’t looking good for a short-term recovery. Adding to the concerns, the camp fears he could also miss the Ashes later this year.
Cummins suffered a back injury during the West Indies tour. He’s currently nursing the issue, and his latest scan reports hint at trouble. He’s set to miss the T20Is vs New Zealand and the eight matches against India five T20Is and three ODIs with the Ashes on the horizon starting November 21.
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Cummins' Ashes Participation Uncertain After Fresh Back Scans
Cummins underwent scans on Monday, and depending on the seriousness, he will be rested accordingly. However, the doctor noted it’s still too early to make a call on whether he’ll miss the Ashes.
“Depending on the seriousness of Cummins' back trouble, he may miss all the white-ball games that precede the first Ashes Test in Perth in late November and could also need to avoid playing a Sheffield Shield game for New South Wales. As it is, he will be missing from the Twenty20 squad that will be named on Tuesday to tour New Zealand," the report stated.
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Cummins' Absence Could Boost Kohli-Rohit Comeback in India ODIs
Cummins is already ruled out of the New Zealand T20Is starting October 1, and with the India series beginning three weeks later, Cricket Australia might not risk rushing him back with the Ashes title defence in mind.
"There may be some concern among Australia’s selectors and medical staff about Cummins pulling up sore after a tour where he bowled very few overs, especially on those lively West Indies pitches," the report added.
India will visit Australia for a 3-match ODI series starting October 11. The series will feature veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both returning to action for India after a 6-month gap. And with Australia likely to rule out Cummins, it could open the door for big runs from both — which could work in India’s favour.
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