The outcome of the scans will influence whether Cummins needs to be managed throughout the series and might cause him to miss parts or all of the Tests, raising concerns about his participation.

If Cummins is unavailable at the start of the series, Steve Smith is expected to lead the team, which could increase pressure on bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

The injury concerns are compounded by the absence of other key fast bowlers like Lance Morris, Spencer Johnson, and Jhye Richardson, who are already sidelined with injuries, limiting Australia's bowling options.

Despite recent injury concerns, Cummins has generally been durable, playing all five Tests against India last summer and other major matches, with only an ankle injury earlier this year affecting his availability.

Australia's captain Pat Cummins is currently uncertain to participate in the upcoming Ashes series due to a back injury that may require workload management, with scans being reviewed by Cricket Australia medical staff.

Cummins has bowled 85.1 overs across four Tests in the West Indies tour but has previously bowled significantly more overs, such as 167 against India last summer and 211 during the 2019 Ashes, highlighting his importance as a bowler.

He has a history of managing back stress injuries, and since returning from the Caribbean, he has been in a 'de-load' phase focusing on strength work, but recent scans could determine if he needs ongoing management.

Cummins did not bowl in the second innings of the third Test in the West Indies in July, which raised questions about his fitness and potential impact on the upcoming matches.

Australia's recent Ashes victories in 2021-22 and 2023, both under Cummins' captaincy, underscore his vital role in the team's success.

Cummins has a history of back injuries but has managed to adapt and lead Australia to major victories, including the World Test Championship and the 50-over World Cup, and is regarded as one of the top fast bowlers and a successful captain.

He attended scans in Sydney on Monday, with results being reviewed by Cricket Australia medical staff, including chief medical officer Dr. John Orchard, as the team monitors his recovery.

His potential absence would be a significant tactical blow, possibly giving England, led by Ben Stokes, an advantage in the series, and would weaken Australia's bowling attack and leadership.

The five-match Test series against England begins in 48 days, making Cummins' fitness a critical concern for Australia's plans.