Ashes 2025-26: ‘There’s been some positive signs’ – Australia optimistic of Pat Cummins’ recovery before Perth test

If Cummins is ruled out of the series opener in Perth, it could pave the way for former skipper Steve Smith to lead the side, while back-up pacer Scott Boland appears the most likely replacement alongside regulars Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. However, McDonald has not given up hope that his captain will be fit to lead Australia, revealing that Cummins’ recovery outlook has actually improved in recent weeks.

“There’s been some positive signs speaking to Patty over the last few days. He’s a lot more optimistic. Those who have been through this type of injury (say) these things ebb and flow. A couple of weeks ago, did he think he had a chance (to play in Perth)? Potentially not, he was a little bit sore. Then you flip it forward two weeks and there’s a lot more positivity. We’ve still got a little bit to go,” said McDonald.

“One of the benefits with Patty is that he has had the ability to prepare for Test matches off shortened preparations. So if it was to be shrunken down, we’d be very confident that he would still be able to perform in the first Test. But the reality is, we’re starting to get tight in terms of the times. We’re still optimistic, hopeful, but this time next week, I think we’ll be in a position to get a better gauge on where he’s at,” he concluded.