Sydney, 2 September 2025:
Australia captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of upcoming limited-overs series against New Zealand and India because of a back problem, but team officials expect him to be fit for the Ashes against England starting in November.
The 32-year-old fast bowler last appeared in the third Test against the West Indies in July before missing white-ball matches against the same opponents and South Africa.
“Despite this planned rest period, Cummins has experienced some ongoing lower back pain following the West Indies Test tour,” Cricket Australia said Tuesday. “Further investigation has identified a level of lumbar bone stress that will require further management over the coming months.”
Australia will play three Twenty20s in New Zealand in October before hosting India for three one-day internationals and five T20s. The five-Test Ashes series begins Nov. 21 in Perth.
“There’s plenty of time left — somewhere in the 80-day range,” said George Bailey, Australia’s chairman of selectors. “Even if match time is limited, we’re confident in his experience and preparation.”
Cummins took 18 wickets during the drawn 2023 Ashes series in England, helping Australia retain the urn. In 19 Tests against England, he has claimed 91 wickets at an average of 24.10.
