Pat Cummins, Australia’s Test captain, has revealed he may “take a few risks” in order to play the Ashes 2025. The fast bowler has been sidelined for the next two months after scans confirmed lumbar bone stress, forcing him out of the upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand and India.
Selectors remain hopeful he will recover in time for the opening Ashes Test in Perth on November 21, but Cummins admitted that nothing is guaranteed. For him, missing an Ashes series would be devastating, and he is determined to give himself every chance to be fit.
Cummins Determined to Play the Ashes
Speaking to reporters in Brisbane, Cummins underlined the importance of the upcoming series.
“It doesn’t get much bigger than the Ashes. I’m willing to take a few risks and be aggressive to play as much Test cricket as possible,” he said.
The Australian captain is focusing on rehabilitation, determined to strike the right balance between recovery and preparation. He believes his experience will allow him to prepare for Test cricket without needing extensive match practice.
No Shield Cricket? No Problem
Unlike younger players who need match fitness from domestic cricket, Cummins is confident he can hit top form quickly.
“At this stage of my career, I can get up to speed faster than when I was 18 or 19,” Cummins explained.
He acknowledged that missing Sheffield Shield games would not affect his ability to be ready for the Ashes opener. His confidence stems from years of international experience and the ability to adapt under pressure.
The Nature of His Injury
Cummins’ back injury surfaced after Australia’s 3-0 Test series win against the West Indies in July. Despite bowling only 60 overs across the series, he pulled up sore and underwent medical scans.
While the injury is not severe, bone stress injuries require caution.
“It doesn’t feel too bad, but with bone injuries you really need to settle it down,” Cummins said.
For now, his training is limited to gym work, with no bowling or running. His recovery program focuses on giving his back enough time to heal before ramping up for the summer cricket season.
Who Could Replace Cummins?
If Cummins fails to recover in time, Australia has several strong bowling options. Scott Boland, who famously took a hat-trick in July against the West Indies, would be the front-runner to step in.
Other candidates include:
- Sean Abbott
- Michael Neser
- Jhye Richardson
- Brendan Doggett
Cummins praised the squad’s depth, stating that Australia is fortunate to have bowlers ready to step up if required.
Leadership Backup
If Cummins cannot captain, Steven Smith is the likely replacement. Smith has stepped in multiple times since Cummins became Test captain in 2021 and provides stability both tactically and strategically.
Looking Ahead
With 12 weeks until the Ashes, Cummins remains optimistic. His focus is on managing the injury carefully while preparing for what could be one of the most important series of his career.
Australia’s selectors also believe he can recover in time. However, with a packed cricket calendar and Cummins’ importance to both the Ashes and Australia’s long-term Test plans, the coming weeks will be crucial.
For Cummins, the Ashes 2025 represent more than just another series—it’s the pinnacle of Test cricket. And as he admitted, he is ready to push boundaries to ensure he walks out in Perth as captain.
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https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/pat-cummins-may-take-a-few-risks-to-be-able-to-play-ashes-1501305
