Melbourne, Oct. 10 -- Ahead of the first Test of The Ashes 2025 against England at Perth, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald provided an update on skipper Pat Cummins' injury, saying that the pacer's condition has improved significantly in recent days and that his chances of returning to action look more positive now.

Cummins has been battling a back injury that has prevented him from bowling since July, and the Australia skipper only returned to running earlier this month, just weeks out from the first Test against England in Perth, scheduled for November 21.

McDonald admitted time was running out for Cummins to prove his fitness ahead of the first Test, but the Australia coach is still holding hope the inspirational captain can feat...