The mother of Australia’s Test skipper Pat Cummins, Maria Cummins, passed away following a protracted illness. Prior to the start of Day 2 of the ongoing fourth Test match between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday morning, Cricket Australia (CA) tweeted a confirmation of the news. The Australian players will wear “black armbands as a gesture of respect” for Pat Cummins and his family, CA further stated.
“We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family and their friends. The Australian Men’s team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect,” CA tweeted.
We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect.
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) March 10, 2023
Following the completion of the second Test in Delhi last month, Cummins had taken a flight back home to be with his ailing mother, who had been given hospice care.
“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,” Cummins said, while explaining his decision to leave India.
The 29-year-old had disclosed that his mother, who tragically received her initial breast cancer diagnosis back in 2005, has been through a bad sickness lately.
With the resignation of veteran wicketkeeper-batter Tim Paine, Cummins was named the 47th captain of the Australian Test team on November 26, 2021. He is the first fast bowler to serve as the permanent captain of Australia in Test matches.
