Pat Cummins faces back injury concerns ahead of Ashes 2025-26

Australia captain Pat Cummins has been struggling with a serious back problem, raising doubts over his participation in all five Tests of the upcoming Ashes series against England. The all-important Ashes series begins in Brisbane on November 21, and an injury to captain Cummins can hamper Australia's preparations for the big series.

According to a report by Daily Mail, scans have confirmed that Cummins is battling with an injury that needs careful management. In the coming weeks, further tests are expected to reveal the extent of the problem. As a result, his workload is set to be managed carefully and the 32-year-old is likely to miss the T20I series against New Zealand, which begins from October 1, and the succeeding ODI series against India at home.

“While officials insist there is no cause for panic, selectors are bracing for the possibility he won’t play every Test,” the report stated.

After playing the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final against South Africa and a three-match away Test series against West Indies, the right-arm pacer did not participate in the white-ball series against the West Indies and South Africa.

Earlier this year, Cummins played all five Tests in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy despite a minor ankle injury. Now, with the Ashes approaching, his workload may need to be carefully managed, similar to how India manages their spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. The fast bowler played all five Tests of the Australia series, and his tired body broke down on Day 2 of the Sydney Test, eventually hampering India’s chances of equalling the series 2-2.

Recently, Cummins’ long-time bowling mate Josh Hazlewood said managing match time is important, and the Test players will also play the Sheffield Shield for their preparation for the marquee series.

The current No. 4-ranked Test bowler, Cummins made his Test debut at the age of 18, but had to endure a six-year gap between his first Test in 2011 and second in 2017 due to repeated stress back fractures. In 71 Tests, he has scalped 309 wickets and is currently the eighth-highest wicket-taker for his national team, leading the team to a World Test Championship title in 2023 as well. In his absence, Steve Smith will be entruisted to take over the leadership duties of the Test team.