Sydney
Australian Test captain Pat Cummins on Wednesday has suggested that he may miss part of next year’s away Test series against Sri Lanka due to the expected birth of his second child with wife Becky. The baby is due in late January or early February, which overlaps with the planned dates for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. Although the exact schedule is yet to be announced, the series is expected to occur during the same time frame.
The series against Sri Lanka could play a crucial role in determining Australia’s place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, especially following the outcome of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Currently, Australia ranks second in the WTC 2023-25 standings, trailing India and facing competition from Sri Lanka (3rd), England (4th), and South Africa (5th).
Cummins shared his thoughts with Sydney Morning Herald, emphasizing the importance of spending time with family. Reflecting on his experience in 2021 when he missed significant time with his son Albie after the birth, Cummins mentioned, ‘I missed a big chunk of son Albie’s early days last time and I want to work out how we can spend a bit more time at home for that initial period this time around.’
Australia’s home season will kick off with a three-match ODI series against Pakistan starting November 4. Following that, the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India will begin on November 22, with the first Test in Perth. The series will feature five Tests, concluding at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.
