Australia's Pat Cummins resumes bowling aiming Ashes comeback

Australian Test captain Pat Cummins has resumed bowling as he progresses toward recovery from a lumbar stress injury, marking an important step in his bid to return for the Ashes series. Cummins, who has not played since mid-July and was sidelined by the injury in September, bowled a light session at Cricket NSW's Silverwater facility under close supervision. He is ruled out of the first Ashes Test starting November 21 in Perth but is optimistic and expected to be considered for the second Test in Brisbane on December 4, contingent on his response to a four-week bowling program. Australia head coach Andrew McDonald expressed cautious optimism about Cummins' comeback, emphasizing the importance of monitoring his fitness as he gradually increases bowling loads. In Cummins' absence, Steve Smith will captain Australia for the first Test, continuing his unbeaten run as stand-in skipper. Cummins remains a key figure for Australia, having been a dominant wicket-taker in recent Ashes series despite a career disrupted by back injuries.