Australia’s preparations for the upcoming Ashes and the 2026 T20 World Cup have hit a snag as Test captain Pat Cummins is sidelined with a back injury. The fast bowler will miss the white-ball series against New Zealand and India to undergo rehabilitation for lumbar stress, though no fractures have been reported.

Cummins, who recently starred with a six-wicket haul in the WTC25 Final, began experiencing discomfort after Australia’s successful tour of the West Indies. His availability for the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21 remains uncertain, though selectors remain optimistic.

Chairman of selectors George Bailey expressed confidence in Cummins’ recovery timeline, stating, “There’s still plenty of time. We fully expect Pat to be ready for the first Test.”

Back issues have previously disrupted Cummins’ career, but since taking over as Test captain in late 2021, he has missed only two matches—one due to injury and another due to COVID-19 protocols.

Despite limited match practice, Bailey emphasized Cummins’ experience and consistency, noting his 309 Test wickets at an average just above 22. Cummins was instrumental in Australia’s last two Ashes campaigns, taking 18 wickets in England and 21 in the previous home series.

With Mitchell Starc retiring from T20s and Cummins unavailable, Australia’s bowling lineup is undergoing a reshuffle. Marcus Stoinis returns to the squad, joining Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, and Josh Hazlewood for the New Zealand series.