Cummins in Race Against Time for The Ashes

Australia's head coach, Andrew McDonald, remains hopeful that injured captain Pat Cummins will recover in time to play a pivotal role in the Ashes series, even if he cannot participate in all five matches. Cummins is currently recuperating from a lower back injury sustained during Australia's tour of the West Indies.

Speaking to Australian radio station SEN, McDonald emphasized the ample time available for Cummins' recovery. 'If it happened any closer to the Ashes, we would have to make key decisions, but we have time to gather more information. We're hopeful Cummins will play a key part,' McDonald stated.

While Cummins will miss Australia's upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand and India, McDonald noted that there is no definitive timeline for his return. He also revealed that there was never a plan for Cummins or his fellow pace bowlers to play all five tests. The Ashes kick off on November 21 in Perth.