SYDNEY :Australia fast bowler Pat Cummins will not be fit for the first Ashes test in Perth next month and will be replaced as captain by Steve Smith, Cricket Australia said on Monday.

Cummins has been sidelined by a lower-back issue and was already doubtful for the series opener against England, which starts on November 21.

"Cummins has resumed running and expects to return to bowling shortly," CA said in a statement.

Australia will also play tests against England in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney around the new year as they look to retain the Ashes urn.

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