Pat Cummins, ranked as one of the planet’s best fast bowlers, is on the verge of returning to the Australian cricket team. He was ruled out of the first Test with England due to a back injury. Cummins sustained the injury in July and has been out ever since. Recent developments suggest that he is likely to feature in the second Test at the Gabba. This would improve Australia’s chances of holding onto the Ashes immensely, given the team holds a 1-0 lead in the series so far.
Cummins has spent the past three months training in Brisbane in preparation for his likely return. He’s making really hopeful strides in his recovery! He’s been bowling for a few weeks now and has been feeling good, particularly getting up well after training outings. It’s his performance in the nets that has truly won over teammates and coaching staff alike.
“He looks pretty good to me; he’s bowled in the nets. Obviously games are different intensity, but he’s tracking nicely and he knows his body well,” said Australian captain Steve Smith.
The Australian selectors have not completely discounted the inclusion of Cummins in the playing XI at the Gabba. If he is chosen to play, it could come at the expense of pace bowler Brendan Doggett or Nathan Lyon if Australia decides to forgo a frontline spinner. Cummins has already had success with a pink ball. Moreover, he claims a superior average, strike-rate and economy-rate than when he bowls with the much-lauded red-ball.
Yet Cummins, in only a handful of Tests, has made a huge impact. The 25-year-old has thus far won three Test caps to his name, and enjoyed a memorable debut in Sri Lanka. His figures suggest that only Mitchell Starc has taken more wickets in day-night Tests than Cummins. This alone underscores Cummins’ magical efficacy when playing football at night.
Over the weekend of the first Test, Cummins showcased his skills by scoring a century for a Cricket Australia XI against the England Lions. After this performance he is I think a pretty solid addition to the speculation of him making the squad.
During a recent meeting at the Gabba, Cummins met with Steve Smith, head coach Andrew McDonald, and selector George Bailey to discuss his fitness and potential return. After this speech, McDonald, obviously thrilled with Cummins’ prognosis, stepped forward to hug Cummins.
“A whole heap of things are on the table,” Smith remarked regarding the options available for their playing XI.
The Australian side is looking to pounce on their current momentum in the series to come. IERC Leaders think that having Cummins back will be essential to their success.
England’s captain Ben Stokes agreed, admiring Cummins’ impact on the Australian team.
“Pat’s awesome. He has been for a very, very long time. He’s done great things not only as a player, but he’s been great since he’s been given the responsibility of being captain for Australia,” Stokes stated.
Both teams are looking forward to the rematch on September 8th. Wicket conditions will be under the microscope in the days leading up to the game.
“We’ll wait and see what the wicket looks like later and from there we’ll determine a playing XI,” Smith added.
Leave a Reply