Australia’s Cummins Expected to Return for Second Ashes Test Against England

Australia's cricket captain Pat Cummins is recovering from a back injury that likely rules him out of the Ashes series opener in Perth, but veteran spinner Nathan Lyon is confident he will be fit to play from the second Test at Brisbane onward. Cummins has been diligently training and following a recovery regimen, aiming to participate in the mid and later matches of the series. Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey is optimistic, expecting Cummins to play a significant role in the five-match contest against England. The schedule provides Cummins with a potential 13-day recovery period before the day-night Test in Brisbane and another 13 days before the Adelaide Test, increasing the likelihood of his return. Lyon praised Cummins’s professionalism and leadership during his rehabilitation, expressing pride in his captain's commitment and class. The Ashes series will also feature seam-friendly pitches that suit Australia’s playing style, which could challenge the English batting lineup.