Pat Cummins, Australia’s cricket captain, is undergoing rehabilitation at the moment for a lumbar bone stress injury. This new injury had thrown his potential participation in the scheduled Ashes series against England into serious doubt. The 32-year-old fast bowler has missed Australia’s recent limited-overs series against New Zealand and India due to his injury. This has caused a great deal of worry not only from fans, but from teammates.
The injury is the latest installment in Cummins’ long battle with a history of serious back injuries that have followed him throughout his career. He encountered just as many obstacles in the 2012-13, 2013-14, and 2015-16 seasons. Because of this he was forced to sit out three Australian summers over four years. Because of that, his fitness has turned into the biggest subplot heading into the Ashes series.
Addressing his long-time teammate and fellow player, Nathan Lyon, shared what he hopes to see in Cummins’ recovery. He noted that the first Test in Perth, beginning November 21, is a little advanced for the new skipper. Beyond hopes of seeing this concept return to life in Brisbane, there is cause for optimism.
“Perth might be pretty difficult, if I’m being honest,” – Nathan Lyon
Lyon is hopeful that Cummins might be “realistic” for the second Test in Brisbane, starting December 4. He added that there were still 13 days left for Cummins to regain his fitness before this all-important match. Beyond his privilege, he has at least another 13 days before the Adelaide Test starts on December 17.
Lyon’s witnessed an intense, unyielding dedication from Cummins during this recovery period. He praised the dedication Cummins has shown to get fit again.
“He’s doing everything that he possibly can. That’s one where you’re really proud of him as a mate but also as a team-mate and your captain, he’s really leading the way by setting the example. He’s training his backside off,” – Nathan Lyon
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Cummins’ immediate availability, Australia’s chair of selectors, George Bailey, remains optimistic about his contributions to the five-match contest. Bailey’s hope for Cummins to have a “major part” will only further cement the importance placed on the captaincy within the Australian set-up.
As the series heads to a close, all eyes will be on Cummins. Specifically, he’s hellbent on being fit in time for what others consider one of cricket’s most magical and storied occasions. For his part, Cummins is vowing to return with a “fury.” With the support of his teammates and his unwavering work ethic, he hopes to lead his team with conviction.
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