Australia's regular captain Pat Cummins have dropped a big hint at his prospects of featuring in second Ashes Test against England at The Gabba in Brisbane.
Pat Cummins provides positive fitness update
Right after Australia's emphatic win over England in Ashes opener, Cummins has provided an encouraging update on his recovery and his chances of returning to the side. His participation in the second Test, scheduled to start on December 4th, had previously been in serious doubt.
In addition to Cummins, star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was also ruled out of the first Ashes Test in Perth with a hamstring injury. According to a report by Code Sports, Hazlewood is now set to miss the second Test as well, a significant blow for the hosts in the crucial Ashes series. However, going by Cummins' steady recovery might see him playing the second Test.
Cummins starts rolling his arms
The Australian fast bowler was observed bowling in practice sessions during the first Ashes Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Cummins' training has been meticulously managed, incorporating a combination of longer spells and lighter work designed to rigorously test his fitness. These sessions are intended to build his confidence and ensure his readiness for the pivotal Gabba Test. The Australian captain is reportedly on track with his recovery and remains highly optimistic about his return. Furthermore, Cummins confirmed that he has successfully completed several bowling sessions without any issues, noting that his fitness is improving well.
Cummins will continue his intensive bowling sessions over the next few days to carefully monitor how his body responds to the workload.
“It’s feeling good. I had a couple of good sessions in Perth this week, so I had a big day where I bowled around 10 overs, then a couple of quieter days, and then went again. It’s on track and pulling up pretty well,” Cummins was quoted as saying by Kayo Sports.
On being asked about chances of playing the second Test, Cummins said:
“I have half a chance for the next game. I’ll have a couple more bowls, and then there could be about two weeks before the next one the way this one is going. I’m pretty hopeful, and it’s probably better than it was a few weeks ago.”
Australia crush England by 8 wickets in Ashes opener
Australia rode on Travis Head's explosive ton to thrash England by eight wickets in Perth. The match proved to be a shocking affair, concluding inside just two days. England's batting collapsed across both innings, as they were bundled out for 172 and 164. The Australian bowling attack was spearheaded by a stunning performance from Mitchell Starc, who registered an exceptional 10-wicket haul for the match. Only Harry Brook managed to score a half-century from the entire English camp.
Travis Head leads spectacular run chase with stormy ton
Chasing a target of 205 runs, Australia achieved the total in remarkable fashion on a ground where big targets typically lead to dramatic collapses. With Usman Khawaja sidelined due to injury, Travis Head was promoted to open the innings, and he immediately took complete control of the game. He absolutely dominated the English bowlers, hitting powerful shots and dictating the play. Although Jake Weatherald started well but fell early to Brydon Carse, Head led the charge. He went on to smash a record-breaking century, while Marnus Labuschagne provided brilliant support from the other end with a stylish fifty, ensuring the hosts stunned England in the Ashes opener.