Australia’s Ashes campaign has been dealt a major setback before a ball has even been bowled. Captain and strike bowler Pat Cummins has officially been ruled out of the first Ashes Test in Perth, as he continues to recover from a persistent back injury. Cricket Australia confirmed on Monday that the 32-year-old pace spearhead has not resumed bowling yet and will aim to be fit in time for the second Test in Brisbane, starting on December 4.

Cummins, who has not played since Australia’s tour of the West Indies in July, had earlier admitted that he was “less than likely” to feature in the series opener. Despite beginning light running drills, the skipper has not yet progressed to bowling workloads, forcing the selectors to take a cautious approach.

Add Zee News as a Preferred Source

Head c

See Full Page