Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup hopes for Australia’s skipper Pat Cummins, but the fast bowler remains optimistic about returning in time for the IPL and managing a demanding international calendar ahead.
Injury setback forces World Cup withdrawal
Australia captain Pat Cummins has revealed that a lingering back issue and a tight recovery window led to his withdrawal from the T20 World Cup. As Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup participation, the pacer admitted he simply “ran out of time” to be fully fit for the tournament in Sri Lanka and India.
Cummins, who has battled back problems since Australia’s Caribbean tour last July, has played just one match in recent months — the Ashes-clinching Test in Adelaide. Although the injury was described as minor, follow-up scans showed his back required extra rest, making the timeline too risky. As a result, Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup ambitions, with Ben Dwarshuis called in as his replacement.
Long-term planning behind cautious call
The decision that Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup dreams was also influenced by Australia’s packed 2027 schedule. Cummins acknowledged that managing his workload now was vital to avoid recurring issues during an unprecedented run of cricket over the next 18 months.
Australia will host Bangladesh, tour South Africa for the first time since 2018, play New Zealand at home, and then face a five-Test tour of India, an away Ashes, an ODI World Cup, and possibly a World Test Championship final. Cummins said rushing back could have left him “chasing his tail,” which is why Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup plans in favor of long-term fitness.
IPL return and Australia’s World Cup challenge
While Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup hopes, the 32-year-old is targeting a return for the Indian Premier League, where he captains Sunrisers Hyderabad. He plans a cautious build-up after another scan, noting T20 cricket is easier to prepare for than Tests.
Australia enter the World Cup without Cummins, Mitch Starc, and likely Josh Hazlewood for the early stages. Their recent 3-0 T20I whitewash by Pakistan has raised concerns, but Cummins remains upbeat. Despite Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup involvement, he believes morale is strong and the squad is eager to perform.
Ultimately, Cummins Minor setback ended T20 World Cup participation may prove a sensible sacrifice — prioritising longevity, leadership, and readiness for Australia’s looming “monster” cricket calendar.
SEE MORE:
