Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon Could Miss Remainder of Ashes Series
Pat Cummins is unlikely to feature in the Melbourne Boxing Day Test and is doubtful for the Sydney finale, potentially joining Nathan Lyon on the sidelines for the rest of the Ashes 2025-26 series. Nathan Lyon is expected to miss the last two Tests after suffering a hamstring injury in Adelaide, where he was seen hobbling and returned on crutches following hospital scans.
Cummins made a significant contribution with six wickets in Australia's 82-run victory in the third Test, which marked his return since a back stress injury last July.
The front-runners to replace Lyon are spinner Matt Kuhnemann and offspinners Todd Murphy and Corey Rocchiccioli, who is uncapped.
Fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland have played all three Ashes Tests so far; resting either would be a brave call if they are fully fit.
Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett remain with the squad in Adelaide, while Jhye Richardson trained before being released for Big Bash League duties.
Steve Smith is expected to return on Boxing Day after missing the Adelaide Test due to vertigo.
Australia currently hold a 3-0 lead in the series heading into the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and the Sydney finale on 3 January.
