Pat Cummins Injured: Worry For Australia Before Champions Trophy?

Pat Cummins injured Before Champions Trophy: As the countdown to the 2025 Champions Trophy draws closer, an injury concern is casting a shadow over Australian captain Pat Cummins. The star pacer, who has been battling a troublesome ankle injury throughout the Australian summer, is set to undergo a scan to assess the severity of the issue. With the Champions Trophy beginning on February 19, Cummins’ availability remains uncertain, leaving both fans and selectors waiting for the scan results.

Injury Concerns for Cummins Ahead of Champions Trophy

Pat Cummins has been a pivotal figure in Australia’s recent successes, leading the team to a 3-1 victory over India in the high-profile Border-Gavaskar Test series. However, despite his impressive leadership and performances, the 30-year-old pacer has struggled with a sore ankle. The injury has hampered his preparation for the Champions Trophy, and his availability for the tournament now depends on the results of the scan.

George Bailey, the chairman of selectors, spoke to nine.com.au about Cummins’ situation, revealing that the team is waiting to assess how the injury progresses. “Not really sure yet, we’ll have to wait and see where that scan comes back and where it’s tracking,” Bailey said, indicating that Cummins’ participation in the Champions Trophy could be in jeopardy.

The uncertainty surrounding Cummins’ fitness adds an extra layer of concern for the Australian team, as the pacer is a key figure in their bowling attack. As the skipper, his leadership has been crucial to Australia’s recent success, making his potential absence a significant blow.

Australia’s Squad for Sri Lanka Series

In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, Australia also announced its squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Notably, several senior players, including Cummins, are missing from the squad. While Cummins is on paternity leave, his ankle issue also contributed to his exclusion from the tour. Instead, the squad will be led by top-order batter Steve Smith, who has stepped up to captain in Cummins’ absence.

Bailey confirmed Cummins’ absence, saying, “Pat’s obviously on paternity leave for the next little bit,” referring to his family commitments. “There’s a little bit of work to do, he’s got a little bit of a sore ankle as well so I think in the next week or so he’s got a scan coming there and we’ll get a bit more information around where that’s at.”

The Australian team is also navigating a period of transition, with a new set of faces included in the squad. However, the absence of Cummins, along with other seasoned players, creates added pressure for the less-experienced members of the team.

Josh Hazlewood’s Recovery Ahead of Champions Trophy

While the injury concerns surrounding Pat Cummins are worrying, there is positive news regarding fellow pacer Josh Hazlewood. Hazlewood, who missed the pink-ball Test in Adelaide due to a left-side injury and had been sidelined for the last two games because of a calf strain, is expected to be fit for the Champions Trophy.

Bailey expressed confidence that Hazlewood would be ready for the tournament, stating that the pacer was responding well to his rehabilitation. “He’s working really hard, and all the news on how he’s responding to the calf injury is coming along really well,” Bailey said.

Although Hazlewood was left out of the Sri Lanka-bound squad, Bailey clarified that this decision was made due to the player’s extended time off the field. “It was just probably a little bit tight (for this squad) given the amount of time he would’ve missed and again looking at how we potentially may structure up those loads those quicks may be put under,” he explained.

Bailey remains optimistic about Hazlewood’s recovery and his ability to return to action in time for the Champions Trophy. “It just worked out that unfortunately for him he didn’t quite get there in time (for Sri Lanka Tests) but really confident he should be fit and raring to go for the Champions Trophy,” he added.

The Road Ahead for Australia

With the Champions Trophy just weeks away, Australia’s selectors are closely monitoring the fitness of their key players. The tournament, which kicks off on February 19, is an important one for Australia, and having a fully fit squad will be crucial if they are to challenge for the title. Cummins’ potential absence could impact the team’s chances, but with Hazlewood’s recovery progressing well, Australia is hopeful that their pace attack will be in good shape for the marquee event.

While it remains uncertain whether Cummins will be available for the Champions Trophy, the Australian team is gearing up for the competition, with a mix of experienced players and fresh faces ready to take on the challenge. The outcome of the upcoming scans will determine whether Australia’s captain can play a role in their pursuit of the Champions Trophy title, or if the team will need to adjust their plans.

As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the results of Cummins’ scan and whether he will make a timely recovery to lead Australia in their quest for glory at the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Conclusion: A Nervous Wait for Australia

As the Champions Trophy looms, injury concerns over Pat Cummins are creating uncertainty for the Australian team. With the skipper’s sore ankle in need of a scan, Bailey and the selectors will have to wait for more clarity on his condition before confirming his participation. Meanwhile, Hazlewood’s recovery is promising, and the Australian camp remains hopeful of a strong showing in the tournament. The next few weeks will be crucial for Australia’s preparations as they aim to put together their best squad for the prestigious event.