In a massive setback for the Kangaroos, skipper Pat Cummins on Friday was ruled out of the Australian Team for the upcoming 3rd Test vs India. India vs Australia Test series are going on in full-swing with the hosts leading the series by 2-0. Not only this, India has retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after they defeated Pat Cummins-led squad in the second Test held in New Delhi. Australia which is going through an injury spree were shocked when Pat Cummins flew back to Australia citing personal reasons, however, Cricket Australia had assured that the cricketer will come back to captain the Kangaroos in the do-or-die match. Now, Cricket Australia has confirmed that Pat Cummins will not be returning for the third and also announced cricketer Steve Smith as the stand-in captain.
The third Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is to be played between India and Australia next month. The match is scheduled to be held from 1 to 5 March 2023 and it will start at 9:30 AM Indian Standard Time (IST) on 1 March.
Why Pat Cummins will miss the third Test?
As per Fox Cricket, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins confirmed he will miss the third Test against India to stay home and be with his ill mother. “I have decided against returning to India at this time as my mother is ill and palliative care,” Cummins said in a statement adding, "I feel I am best being here with my family...I appreciate the overwhelming support I have received from Cricket Australia and my teammates. Thanks for your understanding.”