If the fitness of Pat Cummins is in question for the Ashes, who could potentially step in as his replacement for Australia?
In the world of Australian cricket, uncertainty looms large as the country prepares for a series of significant upcoming matches. The potential absence of both Pat Cummins and Sean Abbott, key members of the Australian squad, has left the selectors with a tough decision to make.
Pat Cummins, Australia's premier fast bowler, is set to miss the upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand and India due to a back injury, diagnosed as lumbar bone stress. His availability for the first Test of the Ashes series in Perth on November 21 is also uncertain.
Sean Abbott, who had been part of the Test squads for the tours of Sri Lanka earlier this year and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home, was dropped from Australia's central contract list for the 2025-26 season. He did not make the final XI in the West Indies tour, marking a disappointing end to a season that started with promise.
With Cummins' potential absence, the selectors are weighing up their options for a replacement. Among the candidates are Josh Hazlewood, Michael Neser, and Scott Boland. Hazlewood, a seasoned campaigner, has been a reliable performer for Australia, while Neser, who was final-reaching Queensland's highest-wicket taker in last year's Shield, offers a fresh perspective. However, Neser's chances were set back by a hamstring injury in an Australia A match ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Scott Boland, with 62 wickets at 16.53, including two five-wicket-hauls and a ten-for against India, has been exceptional in his Test career. His chances of playing in the Ashes series are bolstered by Cam Green's return to bowling.
Should they require another pacer in case one of Starc, Hazlewood, or Boland goes down, Australia may have to delve deeper into their Sheffield Shield ranks. However, the country has already suffered injuries in their reserves, ruling out Lance Morris, Spencer Johnson, and Jhye Richardson, who is recovering from shoulder surgery.
In the unlikely absence of both Cummins and Abbott, Travis Head, Australia's former Test vice-captain, could step up to lead the team. Head, who has experience as Australia's captain, having led the team in the past, would provide a steady hand in times of crisis.
Brendan Doggett, who was travelling reserve in Australia's World Test Championship Trophy squad in June, was another potential contender. However, his chances were dashed when he picked up a minor hip injury, ruling him out of the series and a potential Test debut.
Steve Smith, with his wealth of experience as Australia's captain, is another option. However, his availability for the Ashes series is uncertain, as he is yet to confirm his participation.
As the cricket season unfolds, the Australian selectors have a tough decision ahead. The potential absence of key players presents a challenge, but it also offers an opportunity for new talents to step up and make their mark. The Ashes series promises to be an exciting affair, with both teams eager to prove their mettle.
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