Ashes 2025-26: Pat Cummins returns to the nets, comeback seems imminent

Pat Cummins, who has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test in Perth, commencing on November 21, has been spotted bowling in the nets. The 32-year-old is undergoing rehabilitation from a lumbar bone stress injury. Cricket Australia (CA) recently confirmed that Steve Smith will lead Australia in Cummins' absence in the first Test.

Cummins could take part in the second Test in Brisbane, but that will depend on how his body reacts during a four-week bowling programme structured to assess his fitness.

The talismanic all-rounder has had his share of struggles with back injuries. He debuted as a teenager in international cricket in 2011, but recurring back injuries sidelined him from Test cricket for over five years. In 2017, he had made a much-awaited comeback.

Cummins has a spectacular record against England. In the last four Ashes series, he accounted for 91 scalps. In the 2017-18, 2019, and 2021-22 editions of the Ashes, he finished as the highest wicket-taker.

Meanwhile, Smith has a fantastic record as a stand-in captain. The right-handed batter has registered five wins and one draw in matches where he has taken charge. CA is expected to name the Australian squad for the Perth Test next week.

The prestigious Ashes urn is currently with the Australian team. They have held the coveted prize since 2017-18. The most recent edition of the Ashes was played in England in 2023. Australia won the first two Tests before England defeated them in two out of the next three to end the five-match series in a 2-2 draw.

Australia's last red-ball assignment came in June-July against the West Indies in the Caribbean. The Cummins-led side whitewashed the West Indies 3-0, winning Test matches in Barbados, Grenada, and Jamaica.

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On the other hand, England's last Test series was for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against India in June-August. The Three Lions drew the series 2-2 against a young Indian side led by Shubman Gill.