Pat Cummins Fitness Update: Australia Captain Aiming To Return For Second Ashes Test
Australia captain Pat Cummins is likely to return for the second Ashes Test against England, although he may not play all four remaining matches due to short recovery periods between games.
Current Situation and Captaincy
- Cummins has been sidelined since July with a lower-back injury.
- Steve Smith will lead Australia for the Ashes opener as Cummins misses the first match.
- The second Test starts on December 4, and a decision about Cummins’ participation will be made closer to that date.
Fitness Progress
On Wednesday, Cummins bowled eight overs without experiencing pain, indicating positive progress in his recovery.
"That's the aim and we're building our plan to the second Test. It's probably not until you get a bit closer that you can really know where you're at," Cummins said.
"The good thing is that I'm pulling up well and the body is great. We're trying to keep that second Test as a live option. I'll have a really good bowl in Perth, and by then I'll know where I'm at," he added.
Summary
The 32-year-old is optimistic about returning but will confirm his readiness after further practice ahead of the second Ashes Test.
Author's summary: Pat Cummins is making steady recovery from a back injury and aims to return for the second Ashes Test, but his full participation remains uncertain due to tight scheduling.