Cummins ruled out of whiteball series, Perth Ashes opener in doubt

Australia captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the upcoming whiteball series against India and faces mounting doubt over his availability for the opening Ashes Test in Perth on November 21 after scans showed a recurring lumbar bone stress injury has not yet healed sufficiently for him to resume bowling. Team management has placed Cummins on a cautious rehabilitation program aimed at protecting his long-term fitness, removing him from the three-match ODI series beginning October 19 and the subsequent five-match T20I schedule.

Cummins has a history of lower-back problems and had already missed recent limited-overs tours. While scans have reportedly shown some improvement, medical staff have determined he is not yet ready to bowl in match conditions with only six weeks until the first Ashes Test. That timetable makes his participation in the Perth match unlikely and leaves open the possibility he could miss a larger portion of the five-match series against England.

Selectors have adjusted squads and leadership accordingly. Mitchell Marsh will captain Australia for the whiteball games against India. The whiteball selections also include a mix of experience and youth, with...