“It’s my body, I’ll probably have the final say”: Cummins opens up on injury
Australia Test captain Pat Cummins is racing against time to regain full fitness, with the latest scans revealing that his back stress fracture has not yet healed, reports 24brussels. The 32-year-old has been sidelined for several weeks and is unlikely to participate in the first Test of The Ashes, starting on November 21. Australian medical staff are deliberating whether to risk his involvement at all this summer.
Breaking his silence on the matter, Cummins acknowledged the slim chances of an early return. “I wouldn’t put a percentage on it, but I’d probably say less likely than likely,” he stated. He added, “But we’ve still got a bit of time,” highlighting the challenge of transitioning from a complete absence of bowling to competing in a five-Test series.
The Australian skipper confirmed that while his recovery is progressing well, he remains distant from returning to bowling. “I know I am running today and every other day, and each run is a little bit longer,” he said, emphasizing the incremental progress of his rehabilitation.
“I’m probably a couple of weeks away before I actually put on the spikes and bowl on turf. It’s been a good couple of weeks; each session has kind of gotten better,” Cummins elaborated. He indicated that at least a month in the nets would be necessary before he could play in a Test, expressing the need to bowl 20 overs without hesitation.
Cummins reflected on the frustration of potentially missing a pivotal cricket summer, particularly The Ashes, stating, “Some days I’m kind of annoyed… then other days I’m kind of realistic.” He acknowledged his prior uninterrupted playing span of seven to eight years, suggesting that injuries are an inherent part of cricket.
On his eventual return, Cummins emphasized a collaborative approach with the medical team while asserting, “I think I would probably have the final say, maybe, because it’s my body.” He expressed confidence in the medical staff, stating, “They have been fantastic for us fast bowlers over the years, and having a back injury, I wouldn’t want anyone else.”
Cummins’ potential absence could pose a significant challenge for Australia as they prepare for a crucial Test summer marked by The Ashes. Nevertheless, the captain remains optimistic that a cautious strategy now will pave the way for a complete recovery and readiness for future competitions.
