Overview

• Scans have identified a lower‑back lumbar bone stress for Cummins, with no fracture but ongoing management required.
• Cricket Australia has ruled him out of the T20 tour to New Zealand and the limited‑overs series against India, with Sheffield Shield involvement also unlikely.
• Cummins said he will be aggressive with his rehab and is open to taking some risks, though he is currently avoiding running and bowling ahead of a reassessment in about a month.
• Selectors remain hopeful he can lead Australia in the Ashes opener on November 21 in Perth, yet they acknowledge there are no guarantees.
• Contingency planning is underway, with Scott Boland viewed as the likely pace replacement and Steve Smith available to stand in as captain if required.