Pat Cummins likely to miss tour of Sri Lanka

NEW DELHI: Australia captain Pat Cummins has hinted that he might skip the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka to be with his wife, Becky, for the birth of their second child. The two-Test series is scheduled for January 29 and February 6, aligning closely with Becky’s due date.
"It's pretty hard to plan exactly the day, but definitely (I might miss the Sri Lanka tour)," Cummins told The Daily Telegraph at the launch of the Pink Test, set to begin on Friday.
In Cummins’ absence, Steve Smith or Travis Head is expected to lead the Australian side.
Cummins shared that the passing of his mother last year had significantly influenced his perspective on life and priorities. The fast bowler had returned home midway through the India tour to be with his mother in her final days.
"In some ways, it really makes you focus in 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," Cummins reflected.
"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."
Acknowledging the trade-offs of his career, Cummins added, "Whatever you choose to do, there's always an opportunity cost. 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."
The Australian skipper has previously expressed regret over missing the early days of his son Albie’s life due to his commitments during the World Cup.
"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 had said.