The imminent Ashes series has stirred concerns in Australian cricket as captain Pat Cummins' fitness hangs by a thread. A back stress injury has delayed his return to bowling, casting doubt on his participation when the series kicks off on November 21 in Perth. This puts Australia in a precarious position to retain the urn against England.

Since his debut in the 2017/18 Ashes, Cummins has been an ever-present force for Australia, missing only one match due to COVID-19 protocols. His absence, particularly in Perth, is seen as a major advantage for England, who are eager to clinch their first win in Australia in over a decade, as noted by former England captain Michael Atherton.

Should Cummins be ruled out, Scott Boland is poised to fill the void amidst the reshuffling of Australia's bowli

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