Australia’s Test captain, Pat Cummins, is determined to feature in all five matches of the highly anticipated 2025-26 Ashes series. Despite currently being sidelined due to injury, Cummins is hopeful about making a full recovery in time for the series, which begins on November 21, 2025, at Optus Stadium in Perth.
The 2023 World Test Championship-winning captain has been ruled out of upcoming series against New Zealand and India. He is unlikely to participate in any warm-up matches before the Ashes but could join Australia’s ODI squad for pre-series medical assessments.
Recovery Plans and Schedule Considerations
Cummins, who last played a competitive match in July 2025 against the West Indies, believes that the extended gaps between Ashes Tests may work to his advantage as he recovers from his back issue. “The aim is five. Every summer you kind of aim for five,” Cummins said. “This one might be a little bit different because you’re coming in a little bit different than other ones. But the starting aim is for five. Once we get closer, we’re probably going to chat through potentially more realistic situations.”
Optimism with Extended Breaks Between Tests
One of the key factors Cummins is counting on is the schedule’s design, which includes eight-day breaks between the first three Tests. This extended rest period may reduce the physical toll on him and the team, allowing for better recovery. However, Cummins also acknowledged that Australia is unlikely to stick with the same bowling attack throughout the series.
“Most years, at least one of the bowlers normally goes down,” Cummins noted, referring to injuries that have affected players like Josh Hazlewood, who missed the latter part of the previous Ashes. “We need that fresh bowler, someone who can bowl 40 overs without blinking in a Test match.”
2025-26 Ashes Series Schedule
- 1st Test: November 21-25, Perth Stadium
- 2nd Test: December 4-8, The Gabba, Brisbane (D/N)
- 3rd Test: December 17-21, Adelaide Oval
- 4th Test: December 26-30, MCG, Melbourne
- 5th Test: January 4-8, SCG, Sydney
Stay updated with the latest Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on Today Cricket Matches!