Due to a lower-back injury, Australia’s top bowler and Test captain Pat Cummins was ruled out of the forthcoming white-ball series against India and New Zealand on Tuesday. According to Cricket Australia, his “rehabilitation” is being monitored with the Ashes in mind.
Before hosting India for three ODIs (October 19–25) and five T20Is (October 29–November 8), Australia will play New Zealand in three Twenty20 Internationals starting on October 1. On November 21, the home Ashes campaign kicks off in Perth against England.
“Cummins won’t be considered for the upcoming limited-overs series against India (or New Zealand) and will continue his rehabilitation plan with a return to bowling to be determined as part of his Ashes preparation,” said Cricket Australia.
Before suffering from back trouble, the 32-year-old bowled more than 95 overs in four Test matches this winter in the UK and the Caribbean.
According to CA, his medical scans showed “a level of lumbar bone stress” that will “require further management” in the build-up to the prestigious Ashes.
The back problem that plagued Cummins early in his career has returned, casting doubt on his ability to handle the demanding Ashes schedule, which consists of five Test matches in seven weeks.
