Worrying Ashes detail revealed as Aussies name skipper after big Pat Cummins blow

Australian Test captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test in Perth next month.

Cricket Australia confirmed on Monday morning that the 32-year-old fast bowler will be replaced by Steve Smith as captain for the match.

Cummins missed Australia’s recent limited-overs series’ against New Zealand and India, after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress injury in his back.

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The right-arm quick has resumed running, however is yet to get back to bowling after a frustrating lay-off with a back injury.

It leaves cult hero Scott Boland all but certain to replace his captain in the starting XI. It is less clear however who is set to be the squad’s next-in-line seamer, with the likes of Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett, Xavier Bartlett and Fergus O’Neill expected to be in contention for the spot.

Australian coach Andrew McDonald is set to speak to media on Cummins’ injury at 12.15pm AEST today.

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