October 27, 2025 12:39 PM
Pat Cummins to miss first Ashes Test, Steve Smith to lead Australia in Perth
Australian skipper Pat Cummins is set to miss the first Ashes Test in Perth due to a back stress injury, the International Cricket Council (ICC) stated on Monday. In his absence, star batter Steve Smith will lead the side for the opening Test, with Cummins now aiming to regain fitness ahead of the second Test in Brisbane, scheduled to begin on December 4. Cummins has been managing a back injury in recent weeks, and Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed that he will not recover in time to take part ...