Who Will Step Up as Captain If Pat Cummins Misses the Ashes?

The Australian team is not having a good time in terms of player availability. As the team is fighting with its injury issues for the series against India, the troubles are increasing for the Ashes, too. Starting from 21st November, to commence the home series well.

But to the shock of many fans, Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the first Test in the Ashes. Due to back stress, the Australian skipper won't be available for the team in the first game. If it gets worse, there is a chance he misses out on the entire series. At this time, who comes out to be the probable captain for the team in the Ashes?

Steven Smith is likely to be the skipper of the Australian team, if Pat Cummins is unavailable. Although the captain for the first Test has not been decided yet, it is expected to be Steven Smith. The main reason behind it is that Smith already holds the experience of leading the team in the Test format.

Moreover, looking at the stakes of the Ashes, he will be able to step up for the team once again. In the absence of Cummins, fans have seen Smith leading the team. His win percentage as a captain in the Test format is among the best by the other skippers Australia has had in the same.

Travis Head has achieved his peak form over the past few years. His dominance in the limited-overs format may not be as good as that of Tests. He played a crucial role for the Australian team to win the World Test Championship 2021-23 finals, becoming the Player of the Match.

Playing in Australia will provide Travis Head with a number of advantages, as his average in the country goes above 50. Considering the bowling strength of England, Head will be eager to take up the captaincy this time. He also comes as a great option if the Australian selectors are looking forward to the future skippers.