Pat Cummins might skip SL Tests due to family reasons
What's the story
Australian Test cricket captain, Pat Cummins, has hinted at missing the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.
The reason? A major personal milestone - the birth of his second child with his wife Becky.
The joyous occasion comes just as Australia is set to tour Sri Lanka early next year for a two-match series that could have ramifications on the World Test Championship standings.
Family 1st
Cummins prioritizes family over cricket
In a chat with The Sydney Morning Herald, Cummins said he wants to put family first during this important time.
"Yeah it's definitely a factor," the 31-year-old said about possibly missing the series.
He added, "I missed a big chunk [of son 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."
Work-life balance
Cummins emphasizes balance between career and personal life
Cummins also stressed on the need to balance cricketing commitments with personal life.
He said, "within reason, no one is ever going to bat an eyelid if someone needs to put their family first."
The Australian skipper emphasized that while representing Australia is important, it shouldn't mean players have to put their lives on hold or disregard other aspects of their lives.
Past precedence
Cummins's history of prioritizing family over cricket
This isn't the first time Cummins has picked family over cricket.
Last year, he had to leave a tour midway to be with his late mother Maria during her last days.
Further, when his son Albie was born, strict COVID-19 guidelines were in place which saw him leaving for the T20 World Cup just days after the birth.
This time around, he is determined to be there for his wife and newborn child.