Australia Looks to Captain Cummins for Key Role in Ashes Series

Australia’s chair of selectors, George Bailey, expressed optimism that captain Pat Cummins will play a significant role in the upcoming Ashes series against England. Cummins has been sidelined since July due to a back injury and indicated last week that he might miss the series opener scheduled for November 21 at Perth’s Optus Stadium. While there has been no recent update on his condition, Bailey provided insights into Cummins’ recovery during a media briefing on Saturday.

Bailey stated, “It’s progressing. He’s building up. He’s optimistic about it.” He acknowledged that while Cummins has increased his activity in recent days, it remains unclear if he has resumed bowling. Time is running short, and various factors are being considered regarding his fitness. “It’s positive; we’re really confident that he’s going to play a major part. Hopefully, it’s the first Test. If not, then we’ll pick it up,” Bailey added.

In the event Cummins is unable to participate, Steve Smith will step in as captain. Bailey also highlighted the impressive form of Marnus Labuschagne, who has recently scored his fourth century in five domestic innings while playing for Queensland. Labuschagne’s latest performance included a score of 159 in a Sheffield Shield match against South Australia. This resurgence comes after he was dropped ahead of Australia’s 3-0 series sweep in the West Indies after a lengthy run of 30 Test innings without a century.

The selectors are considering Labuschagne for a return to the Test squad, possibly as an opener or batting at No 3. Bailey praised Labuschagne’s recent innings, noting, “Out of everything that he’s played, I really liked the innings in Adelaide. I liked the intent, the movement, the way he built the partnerships.” With a total of 11 Test hundreds in 58 matches, Labuschagne is a key player in Australia’s lineup.

Adding another dimension to the team, Cameron Green has been withdrawn from Australia’s One Day International squad to face India due to mild side soreness. Despite this, Bailey remains confident that the 26-year-old will be fit to perform as an all-rounder in the Ashes opener. “We put so much time and energy into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder,” Bailey explained. The decision to take a conservative approach regarding Green’s fitness underscores the team’s commitment to ensuring he is fully prepared for the series.

As the Ashes series approaches, Australia is hopeful that Cummins will lead the team from the front, supported by players like Labuschagne and Green, as they prepare to face England in what promises to be a thrilling contest.