Harry Brook believes England stand to benefit if Australia captain Pat Cummins misses the opening Ashes Test in Perth next month.

Cummins' availability remains a question mark six weeks out from the first Test at Optus Stadium, which begins on November 21.

The 32-year-old has not played since July as he continues his rehabilitation after suffering from lumbar bone stress.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald remains optimistic about Cummins' chances of making the first Test, though he is still yet to be cleared to bowl.

Cummins has taken 91 wickets in 19 previous Tests against England at an average of 24.10, and he captured a series-leading 21 wickets in Australia's most recent home Ashes series, in 2021-22.

"With him out of their side for the first game, from what we've seen, that plays into our hands," Brook said at the Professional Cricketers' Association awards, as quoted by BBC Sport.

"Obviously he is an amazing bowler and has been for many years; he bowls at high pace with high skill. 

"But they have a lot of good bowlers, quick bowlers, so we can't take anybody lightly. I'm sure they'll draft someone in who is very skilful."

 On This Day in 2024…

Harry Brook triple century 
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Fourth highest partnership in the history of the game 

What a day in Multan!  pic.twitter.com/lViCP0mKhP

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) October 10, 2025

England's captain Ben Stokes also has a fitness concern ahead of the series, having suffered a shoulder injury during the home series against India this summer.

Stokes has endured several injury setbacks in recent years, but Brook – who has been promoted to vice-captain at the expense of Ollie Pope ahead of the tour – expects him to play a full part.

"I think he'll power through even if he has a little niggle," Brook said of Stokes. "I have full faith that he is going to be there. 

"Everybody in the world knows what he's like, about his character and the way that he just cracks on."

Asked about the prospect of filling in for Stokes if he is unable to play all five Tests, Brook said: "Obviously, being captain would be a massive honour, but I would much rather Stokesy played five Test matches. 

"He's such a vital part of our team, batting at number six and bowling the overs that he does. For him to play all five Tests would be awesome for us."