Australia could receive a major boost ahead of the second Ashes Test, with captain Pat Cummins hinting at a potential return. After missing the Perth Test due to a back injury, Cummins has now suggested he may be fit in time for the Gabba clash, raising hopes among Australian fans.
Cummins’ recurring back issue resurfaced just before the start of the Ashes 2025, ruling him out for several weeks. Despite undergoing intensive rehabilitation, he wasn’t ready for the series opener in Perth, where Australia secured a dominant eight-wicket victory. With the second Test scheduled for December 4 in Brisbane, Cummins is optimistic about making a comeback.
Speaking to Fox Cricket, the Australian skipper revealed that he has been “pulling up well” in training, bowling more than 10 overs on some days. However, he remains cautious and is still avoiding full-intensity spells to prevent aggravating the injury.
“It’s feeling good. I had a couple of good sessions in Perth this week, so having a big day where I’d bowl around 10 overs, then a quieter day, and then going again. It’s on track and pulling up pretty well,” Cummins said.
He added that he believes he has “half a chance” of returning for the Gabba Test. In his absence, Steve Smith captained Australia in Perth, guiding the team to victory in a match that ended in just two days. Mitchell Starc stepped up brilliantly, claiming a 10-wicket match haul, while Travis Head blasted a 123 off 83 balls in the 205-run chase to give Australia a 1-0 lead in the five-match Ashes series.
Josh Hazlewood’s availability still uncertain in the Ashes
Cummins’ recovery has become even more crucial given Australia’s depleted pace attack. Josh Hazlewood, who also missed the Perth Test due to a hamstring injury, is likely to be sidelined for the entire Ashes series.
Hazlewood did not travel to Perth after sustaining the injury during a recent Sheffield Shield match, and early indications suggest he won’t be fit for the Gabba Test either.
Adding to Australia’s concerns, opener Usman Khawaja walked off on Day 2 of the Perth Test with a suspected injury. His availability for the second Test remains doubtful, particularly after Travis Head’s impressive performance as an opener.
