SYDNEY (AP) — Pat Cummins has conceded he’s a doubtful starter for Australia’s Ashes series opener against England in Perth next month.

“I wouldn’t put a percentage on it, but I’d say probably less likely than likely,” the pace bowler told domestic media Monday. “I’ve still got a bit of time.”

The Australia captain has been sidelined for three months with a back stress injury, and speculation has mounted in recent weeks that he’d miss at least the first test, and likely more, of the biggest test cricket series on the 2025 calendar.

Cummins said he’s back into physical training and “each session feels better and better.”

“We get into slight bowling prep I think next week,” he said. “I’m probably a couple of weeks away before I actually put on this spikes and bowl on the turf.”

The five

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