The Final Word Cricket Podcast Captain Cummins a chance to miss the Ashes
Sep 2, 2025
Pat Cummins' back injury raises concerns about his availability for the Ashes, possibly altering Australia's bowling strategy. Mitchell Starc announces his retirement, while cricket dynamics shift with emerging talents like Sonny Baker. Insights into the evolving landscape of women's cricket highlight the need for equality in prize money. The discussion also touches on the County Championship's future and the impact of recent player decisions on team selections and strategies. Humor and nostalgia blend as hosts reflect on the cricket season's end.
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Cummins' Back Issue Changes Ashes Equation
- Pat Cummins' lumbar bone stress hotspot threatens his match readiness and could preclude domestic tune-up cricket before the Ashes.
- Losing Cummins at the start would materially change Australia's bowling balance and series outlook.
Prioritise Caution Over Short-Term Returns
- Take a conservative medical approach and prioritise long-term management over short-term matches for lumbar bone stress.
- Avoid rushing Cummins into competitive cricket without sufficient first-class preparation.
Cummins Is Australia's Recovery Weapon
- Cummins provides game-changing breakthroughs across a Test, not just bursts up front like Starc or Hazelwood.
- His absence would remove Australia's most reliable recovery weapon and increase pressure on depth options.