Published on, Sept. 2 -- September 2, 2025 3:50 PM

Australia remains hopeful that captain Pat Cummins will be fit for the Ashes series starting in November. Cummins has been managing a lumbar bone stress injury since July. The injury caused him to miss recent white-ball matches against the West Indies and South Africa. Cricket Australia said he still has lower back pain. However, no exact return date has been set yet.

Selector chairman George Bailey expressed confidence Cummins will play the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21. He said there is plenty of time for recovery. Bailey also added that even without recent match practice, Cummins's experience will help the team. The selectors trust his skill and leadership. Cummins remains...