Steve Smith Set To Lead Australia In Ashes Series If Cummins Is Unfit

Australia's cricket team is preparing for the Ashes series, with Steve Smith set to lead if Pat Cummins remains sidelined due to a back injury. George Bailey, the selection chair, confirmed this arrangement. Cummins' injury has already excluded him from the upcoming white-ball series against India, starting with an ODI in Perth.

Smith's Role and Preparation

Steve Smith recently returned from New York and immediately began training at Cricket New South Wales headquarters. He is scheduled to participate in the next two rounds of Sheffield Shield matches in Brisbane and Sydney. Bailey mentioned that Smith's preparation is tailored to fit his needs and obligations, ensuring he will be ready for the Ashes.

Cummins' Involvement Despite Injury

Despite his injury, Cummins intends to stay close to the team. "Regardless of whether he's playing, Pat's keen to be around because if he's not playing he'll be rehabbing and getting ready and bowling, so he'll be with the team anyway," Bailey stated. This ensures that communication between the captain and vice-captain remains consistent.

Smith's Leadership Experience

Smith's potential leadership role isn't new; he has previously captained Australia. "If Pat doesn't play, Smudge (Smith) will captain. That's business as usual for us. That formula has worked," Bailey was quoted as saying by 'Sydney Morning Herald'. His experience provides stability during Cummins' absence.

The first Ashes Test is set for November 21 in Perth. If Cummins cannot participate, Smith will step up as captain once more. The team is confident in this arrangement, given Smith's proven leadership skills and readiness for the challenge ahead.