India and Australia will face each other in the third match of the four-match Border-Gavaskar trophy on March 1, 2023, but before it Australia has got a definite setback.
Aussie captain Pat Cummins who had left India after the second Delhi Test to fly Australia citing the reason of family illness, will not be available for the third game in Indore.
It is reported that senior batter Steve Smith will take the charge of the team. While flying to Australia Pat Cummins confirmed that his mother “is ill and in palliative care”.
The Delhi Test got over in three days only and it was almost a 9-day break. It was earlier speculated that the Aussie captain would return to India before the third game but now it’s not happening.
But, Australia stated on Friday that Cummins would miss the Test in Indore. Although they are leaving the possibility of his return open for the last Test in Ahmedabad, Smith may end up leading the team in both of the remaining games.
Pat Cummins said,”I have decided against returning to India at this time. I feel I am best being here with my family.”
He further added,”I appreciate the overwhelming support I have received from Cricket Australia and my teammates. Thanks for your understanding.”
