Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, will miss the first Ashes Test due to fitness concerns, paving the way for Steve Smith to captain the team.
Cummins, a key fast bowler, has been struggling with a back injury, suggesting earlier in the month that his participation in the Perth Test on November 21 was “less than likely.”
Cricket Australia announced on Sunday that the 32-year-old, who hasn’t played since July, is still unable to bowl, with the series opener less than a month away.
Cummins is anticipated to resume bowling “shortly” and aims to be fit for the second Test in Brisbane, commencing on December 4.
More updates to follow.
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