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Skipper Pat Cummins has admitted that his involvement in the first Ashes Test appears unlikely due to persistent injury concerns.

Recent reports from Australia had indicated that Cummins might miss the whole series, though the pace bowler himself has now given a more comprehensive update on his situation.

Injury Timeline

The veteran cricketer has been battling with a spinal issue that has prevented his participation since his last professional game in July.

While Cummins has restarted running training, he has yet to commence bowling as part of his rehabilitation program.

"I wouldn't put a percentage on it, but I'd say probably more doubtful than certain," stated Cummins. "We get into begins next week, so probably a couple of weeks away from wearing the spikes and delivering on turf."

Bowling Preparation

Australia coach Andrew McDonald had previously indicated that Cummins would need a bare minimum of four weeks of bowling preparation to have any opportunity of playing in the first Test, set to begin on November 21.

Cummins echoed this assessment, clarifying: "It's necessary to have at least approximately a month in the nets. If you play a Test match, you want to make certain you're able to bowl 20 overs in a day without worry."

Series Implications

Given the tight timeframe, there are also concerns about Cummins' availability for the second Test in Brisbane on December 4.

Should Cummins be unfit, former captain Steve Smith is likely to lead the side, with Scott Boland possibly filling the gap in the bowling attack.

The hosts have held the Ashes urn since 2018, while England are without a Test victory in Australia since 2011.

Career Background

Cummins' current injury concerns echo challenges from earlier in his distinguished career. He made his Test debut as an 18-year-old in 2011 against South Africa, becoming the second-youngest player to take a five-for in an innings at that time.

However, his explosive debut proved to be a false dawn, as Cummins endured six years before his next match due to repeated stress fractures in his spine.

Notable Accomplishments

When fit, Cummins has proven himself as one of cricket's elite fast bowlers. The 32-year-old has taken 309 Test dismissals at an remarkable average of 22.10.

His record in Australia is even more formidable, with 177 wickets at 19.92, while he has claimed 91 wickets against England in just 19 matches.

In the most recent Ashes series in 2023, Cummins played in all five Tests, taking 18 wickets and confirming his importance to the Australian side.

As captain, Cummins enjoyed a successful 2023, taking six wickets in Australia's victorious World Test Championship final and excelling in their 50-over World Cup final win against India.

He remains the only captain in Test history to win the World Test Championship, World Cup, and an Ashes series.

Squad Situation

England also face their own injury worries with captain Ben Stokes, who has been troubled by a shoulder injury since the Test series against India.

Both teams will be assessing their key players closely as the much-anticipated Ashes series approaches.