Cummins out of first Test

Injured Australia captain Pat Cummins (above) has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test against England in Perth next month, head coach Andrew McDonald said yesterday.

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McDonald said Cummins had "run out of time" as he recovers from a lower back injury, and that veteran batter Steve Smith would lead the side in his absence.

Australia are clinging to hope the pace spearhead will be ready for the second match of the Five-Test series.

"We've grappled with it for a little while, and the nature of the injury is that you grapple with it day-by-day," McDonald told reporters.

"We're really optimistic and hopeful for the second Test match. He'll be back bowling this week, that's a huge step."

But McDonald conceded Australia were unable to give a firm timeframe for Cummins' return.