SYDNEY: Australia captain Pat Cummins on Thursday hinted that he might miss the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka later this month as he awaits the birth of his second child.
The two-match Test series, scheduled to begin on January 29, overlaps with the expected delivery date of his child with his wife, Becky.
“It’s pretty hard to plan exactly the day, but definitely (I might miss the Sri Lanka tour),” said Cummins, speaking ahead of the Pink Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The Australian skipper’s priorities have shifted significantly following his mother’s passing last year.
He left midway through the India tour to be by her side in her final moments, an experience that has profoundly influenced his perspective on balancing professional and personal commitments.
“In some ways, it really makes you focus on what I think is important. It’s family, it’s enjoyment, it’s trying to find joy in life, and I think that’s been a slight shift in the way I’ve approached playing and touring. It’s just given me that real decluttering mindset," he said.
“When you go out, you just want to play well, and of course, there’s going to be pressure, but you don’t want to forget what Mum and Dad used to say to us every time we went out to play as kids: ‘Go and enjoy it. Try your best, but make sure you enjoy it.’ I try to remind myself of that every time I go on a tour or play. Whatever you choose to do, there’s always an opportunity cost," he added.
“In the last few years, that’s really rung true. When you go away on tour, you’re missing out on family time or moments. That’s a deliberate choice, so you have to make sure you’re making the most of that tour or that game, if that makes sense."
Reflecting on his earlier commitments, the right-arm pacer shared his regret about missing significant moments with his first child, Albie, due to his World Cup responsibilities.
“I missed a big chunk (of 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," he admitted.
In the potential absence of Cummins, the leadership mantle for the Sri Lanka series might fall to either Steve Smith or Travis Head.
His decision highlights the increasing emphasis on players balancing professional commitments with personal well-being.
The 31-year-old will lead Australia in the fifth and final Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting Friday.
Australia, currently leading the series 2-1, aim to clinch a historic 3-1 victory—a feat last achieved in 2015. The Boxing Day Test saw Australia secure a commanding 184-run victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
- Pat Cummins
