Pat Cummins Ruled Out of Remaining Ashes series. With Australia already 3-0 up, the team has decided there’s no point pushing their captain any further. The focus now is on keeping him fit for what comes next, not squeezing out two more Test appearances.
Cummins only just returned in Adelaide after dealing with a back stress injury. He missed the first two Tests and came back carefully managed. He got through the match fine, but everyone involved knew this moment was coming. After Australia sealed the series, the team shifted focus to protecting players.
Australia’s coach Andrew McDonald confirmed Pat’s really comfortable with that. If he had any setback in the build-in as well, we would have shut him down straight away
Cummins himself is comfortable stepping aside. After the Adelaide Test, he hinted at resting once Australia wrapped up the series. He showed no frustration, only acceptance built on experience.
Steve Smith is set to return for the Boxing Day Test and will lead the side, assuming he clears his final checks. He missed the Adelaide game with an inner-ear issue, but that problem is settling. If fit, he’ll walk back into the captain’s role without fuss.
Australia also have another headache to deal with. Nathan Lyon is out for the rest of the series and will need surgery after tearing his right hamstring. The injury happened while he was diving to save a boundary late on the final day in Adelaide. It’s an unlucky way for his series to end and a big loss for the attack.
Todd Murphy has been called into the squad and is the obvious replacement. He hasn’t played Test cricket since Sri Lanka earlier this year, but conditions at home won’t faze him. This is the sort of opportunity Australia like to give their younger players.
Jhye Richardson is also back in the frame. If he plays, it will be his first Test in four years. Injuries have slowed his career, but he’s been building quietly behind the scenes. His recent five-wicket haul against England Lions showed he’s ready when needed.
Australia may already have the Ashes locked up, but the final two Tests will still matter — just for different reasons. Squad depth, fitness management, and future planning are now the real focus.