Pat Cummins Ruled Out of India Series with Back Injury, Focus Shifts to Ashes 2025

Australia has suffered a major setback ahead of their upcoming limited-overs series against India. Skipper and star pacer Pat Cummins has been ruled out due to a back injury and will miss the entire three-match ODI and five-match T20I series scheduled for October. Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed the news on Tuesday, stating that Cummins will undergo rehabilitation in a bid to return fully fit for the high-profile Ashes series later this year.

According to CA’s official statement, Cummins will not feature in the series against both India and New Zealand as he continues his recovery process. Importantly, medical staff have clarified that the issue is not a stress fracture, but precautionary management is required to ensure long-term fitness.

“Pat Cummins will not be part of the squad for the upcoming limited-overs series against India and New Zealand. He will continue his rehabilitation and return to bowling during the preparation phase for the Ashes,” the CA statement read.

The Ashes 2025-26 will begin on November 21 in Perth, making Cummins’ recovery a top priority for the Australian board.

Cummins, 32, developed discomfort after bowling nearly 95 overs across four Test matches during the World Test Championship final against South Africa in June at Lord’s. Subsequent scans revealed strain in his spine, leading doctors to recommend an extended rehabilitation period.

Given Cummins’ dual role as both captain and frontline pacer, his absence is considered a big blow for Australia. His leadership and strike power with the new ball have been instrumental in Australia’s recent successes.

Australia’s upcoming schedule is packed. The team will play three T20 internationals against New Zealand from October 1, followed by the India series starting October 19. Cummins’ absence will force the selectors to rethink their pace attack, possibly giving opportunities to younger bowlers.

The Ashes, however, remain the ultimate focus. The five-match series will begin in Perth and continue in Brisbane (Dec 4–8), Adelaide (Dec 17–21), Melbourne (Dec 26–30), and Sydney (Jan 4–8). CA is determined to have Cummins fully fit to lead the side in what promises to be one of the most anticipated Test battles of the year.

Cricket experts suggest that keeping Cummins fresh for the Ashes is a sensible move. The series against India and New Zealand, while competitive, is not considered as critical as the Ashes, where Cummins’ presence could decide the outcome. Australia’s team management is expected to rotate bowlers and rely on experienced campaigners like Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc to shoulder the responsibility in his absence.

While missing the India series is a setback for both Cummins and fans, the long-term view is clear — ensuring that Australia’s skipper is fully fit to lead from the front in the Ashes. The coming weeks will be crucial in his rehabilitation, with the cricketing world watching closely.