Cummins Sidelined, Starc Pushes On as Australia Reset for Boxing Day Ashes Test
There’s been a major twist in Australia’s Ashes story just as the focus shifts to the iconic Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Pat Cummins, the Australian captain and pace spearhead, has officially been ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes series. What was described as a “freak” situation by the medical staff has led to a cautious but firm decision: Cummins has been put on ice to protect his long-term fitness after pushing hard to return from a back stress injury.
Cummins’ comeback in Adelaide was always a calculated risk. That risk paid off in the short term, as he took six wickets and helped Australia clinch the Ashes series. But now that the job is done, it has been decided that exposing him to further danger simply isn’t worth it. The message from team management has been clear and calm. With the series secured, Cummins’ health has taken priority, and his absence will allow him to be better positioned for future assignments, including discussions around the upcoming T20 World Cup.
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While Cummins steps aside, Mitchell Starc continues to amaze everyone around him. Despite bowling close to 100 overs already in the series, Starc has been labelled a physical “freak” by Australia’s medical staff. At 35, he’s still charging in and hitting mid-140km/h speeds deep into Test matches, even on day five. His late burst of wickets in Adelaide underlined how crucial he remains, and all signs suggest he’ll front up again in Melbourne.
Scott Boland is also expected to recover from a minor hip issue in time for his home Test, which would be a special moment for the local favourite. With Cummins unavailable and Nathan Lyon set for surgery after tearing his hamstring, selection conversations have shifted quickly. Jhye Richardson has been added to the squad and is firmly in the mix, alongside Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett. Conditions at the MCG will play a big role in deciding whether Australia goes with an all-pace attack or includes spinner Todd Murphy, who has been recalled as Lyon’s replacement.
Richardson’s return is being viewed as a quiet success story. After undergoing shoulder surgery earlier this year, his workload has been carefully rebuilt, and his pace in the nets has impressed the coaching staff. It’s been suggested that the patience shown could now be rewarded.
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