Pat Cummins flew back to Australia after the second Test due to a family emergency, and he most likely won’t be returning by the time the third Test in Indore begins. In his absence, Steven Smith, the current vice-captain, will be leading the team in Indore, and may possibly continue as the captain in the fourth Test.

Cummins was supposed to return before the third Test but decided to stay with his family since his mother is battling terminal sickness and is currently in palliative care. He may return before the final Test of the series. 

“I have decided against returning to India at this time,” said Cummins. “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.”

Since being reinstated as a deputy to Cummins in 2021, Smith had led the team on two occasions. He had earlier captained the team in 34 Tests between 2014 and 2018 before his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal led to his dismissal. Smith was the captain when Australia toured India last time in 2017, and he lit up the series with three belligerent centuries in tough conditions. However, he has struggled this time, managing just 71 runs in the first two Tests. 

While Cummins’ absence will be sorely felt, Smith will be relieved with the potential comeback of Cameron Green and the pacer Mithcell Starc, who has been nursing a finger injury. Green’s inclusion will provide a massive boost to their batting order. 

“When you come in as an allrounder, you might be able to help out with team balance maybe a little bit,” Green told reporters in Delhi. “It will be interesting to see which way the selectors go for this game.”

 If Starc fails to make it, Scott Boland is expected to lead the pace attack. Boland may not possess the fiery pace of Starc, but he is extremely consistent with line and length and can bowl long dry spells without much hassle.