Australia’s Pat Cummins Suspected to Miss ODI Series Against India with Wrist Injury
Australia’s cricket captain, Pat Cummins, is facing uncertainty ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against India due to a suspected wrist injury. Cummins, who played with a heavily-strapped wrist during the fifth Ashes Test against England, is yet to receive an official diagnosis from Cricket Australia.
Sources close to the matter have indicated that medical staff have not ruled out the possibility of a fracture in Cummins’ wrist, but further details have not been disclosed thus far. The Australian team is set to depart for India for the ODI series, commencing on September 22 in Mohali.
The injury occurred during the opening day of the final Ashes Test at the Oval. While Cummins continued to bowl, his discomfort while batting was evident. After an intense two months of playing six Tests, including the World Test Championship final against India, the fast bowler was expected to take some time off for rest and recovery.
Cricket Australia is likely to announce the squad for their upcoming white-ball assignments, including the tours of South Africa and India, next week. In the event of Cummins’ absence, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh is expected to lead the team. Marsh is also in contention for the role of Australia’s T20 captain.
When Cummins missed the India tour earlier this year, star batter Steve Smith took over the captaincy. However, no official statement has been released regarding the potential leadership arrangements should Cummins be forced to sit out the ODI series in India.
Following the tour of South Africa, Australia will proceed to India for the ODI series. Additionally, they will play three T20Is and five ODIs against South Africa, starting from August 30.
The absence of Cummins, Australia’s pace spearhead, would undoubtedly be a blow to the team’s bowling lineup. However, it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their skills on the international stage.
As the Australian cricket board prepares to finalize the squad, fans and pundits alike eagerly await further updates on Cummins’ condition. The uncertainty surrounding his availability adds an element of suspense and intrigue to the upcoming series against India. Only time will tell if he can recover in time to lead his team on the field.