Australia’s cricket team faces a significant setback as captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the Ashes series opener against England, scheduled for November 21, 2025, in Perth. Cricket Australia confirmed on Monday that Cummins, sidelined for three months due to a back stress injury, has resumed running but will not recover in time for the first Test. The 32-year-old fast bowler, who last played in Australia’s 3-0 series sweep against the West Indies in July, is expected to return to bowling soon but will miss the crucial opening match of the five-Test series.

Former captain Steve Smith will step in to lead the Australian side in Cummins’ absence, taking the helm for the highly anticipated clash at Perth’s Optus Stadium. The Ashes, one of cricket’s most storied rivalries, will continue with a day-night Test in Brisbane from December 4, followed by matches in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. Smith, a seasoned leader with a wealth of experience, is expected to guide a formidable Australian squad as they aim to retain the urn on home soil.

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Cummins’ absence opens the door for Scott Boland to join Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in Australia’s pace attack, a trio well-suited to the pace-friendly conditions in Perth. Boland, who has an impressive record of 49 wickets in nine home Tests at an average of 12.63, made headlines on his 2021 debut at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where he claimed six wickets for seven runs in a dominant performance. His inclusion adds depth to Australia’s bowling lineup as they prepare to face a determined England side.

The injury to Cummins, a key figure in Australia’s recent successes, underscores the physical demands of fast bowling and the importance of squad depth. Cricket Australia remains optimistic about Cummins’ recovery, with expectations that he could return later in the series. For now, fans and analysts alike will watch closely as Smith and Boland step up to lead Australia in what promises to be a fiercely contested Ashes opener.

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