Australia’s cricket team will start the first Ashes test against England without their captain, Pat Cummins, who is sidelined due to a back injury. Steve Smith has been named as his replacement for the upcoming match in Perth. Cummins had been struggling with the injury for some time, and despite efforts to heal, he will miss the opener next month.
Australia’s coach, Andrew McDonald, mentioned that it will take a few weeks to get Cummins back to full fitness, expressing hope that he will be ready for the second Test. In the meantime, former captain Steve Smith will lead the team, returning to the captaincy role after being involved in the sandpaper scandal in 2018.
McDonald emphasized the experience Smith brings to the team and the positive dynamic between him and Cummins. Scott Boland is set to fill Cummins’ spot in the team for the first test, alongside Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. McDonald highlighted the anticipation of Cummins’ return and the boost it will provide to the team.
The Ashes series will be closely watched, with the second test scheduled at The Gabba in Queensland in early December. The final test is set for early January in Sydney. Cricket enthusiasts can share their predictions on the Ashes outcome, while Brendon McCullum has already announced his squad for the first test.