India, Sept. 2 -- Australia captain Pat Cummins was sidelined from the upcoming white-ball series against India and New Zealand due to a flare-up of a lower-back issue, raising concerns about his preparation for this summer's Ashes.

Cricket Australia confirmed on Monday that Cummins, 32, would not be available for selection for the upcoming ODIs and T20Is, following medical scans that revealed "a level of lumbar bone stress." While the injury has not been described as a stress fracture, the recurrence of a familiar back issue has prompted a cautious approach from Australia's medical team.

"Cummins won't be considered for the upcoming limited-overs series against India or New Zealand and will continue his rehabilitation plan, with a retu...