Before the ODI World Cup next month, Australia is scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against India during their tour. However, ahead of this series, the Australian team might face a significant setback as their captain Pat Cummins could be ruled out due to an injury.
According to reports, the fast bowler has suffered a fracture in his left forearm. The report states that Cummins injured his left forearm during the first day of the recently concluded Ashes 2023 Test at The Oval. Despite the injury, the key fast bowler and captain played the entire match.
He had a heavy strapping on his forearm and displayed a valiant effort in his bowling. Despite struggling with the injury, the Australian captain performed exceptionally well. He took two wickets while bowling and also made a crucial contribution of 36 runs with the bat in the first innings.
It is hoped that Cricket Australia will announce the team for the upcoming series against South Africa and India in the coming days. Pat Cummins, who played six consecutive Test matches during the England tour, might be rested for the limited-overs series. However, it is expected that he will fully recover and be fit for the ICC World Cup 2023.
In Pat Cummins’ absence, Mitchell Marsh will lead Australia in both formats. There is also ongoing discussion about Marsh being appointed as the next T20 captain for the team. Since Aaron Finch’s retirement, the Australian team has been without a captain in the shortest format of the game.
Various reports suggest that Marsh is the front-runner for this role, and a decision is likely to be made soon, especially with the T20 World Cup 2024 approaching. It should be noted that the first ODI between India and Australia will be played on September 22, the second ODI on September 24, and the third ODI on September 27.