Australia Optimistic About Cummins’ Return for Second Ashes Test

Post by : Mara Rahim

Australian coach Andrew McDonald is optimistic that captain Pat Cummins will return for the second Ashes Test. He also indicated that it’s unlikely fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will miss the entire series, despite his current injury. McDonald shared these insights with reporters as the team gears up for their next match.

Cummins previously mentioned he was only a “half chance” for the day-night Test against England on December 4 in Brisbane. However, McDonald conveyed a more confident stance, noting that Cummins had intended to bowl in the nets on the fourth day of the Perth Test. Australia won so swiftly—within just two days—that it altered their training schedule. This unforeseen early finish has postponed Cummins’ bowling session by an additional day.

While McDonald acknowledged that the circumstances didn’t unfold as anticipated, he remains hopeful. He expressed that once Cummins resumes bowling, the team would gain better clarity on his recovery. The coach added that discussions regarding Cummins’ availability would be ongoing until shortly before the next match, emphasizing that Cummins is nearing a recovery milestone, which bodes well for the Australian team.

In the meantime, another vital player, Hazlewood, who missed the first Test due to a hamstring injury, has recently commenced his rehabilitation. McDonald mentioned they would have more information about Hazlewood’s situation as he progresses with his recovery plan and is confident in his return later in the Ashes series.

The third member of the pace trio, Mitchell Starc, showcased remarkable form in the first Test, taking 10 wickets for 113 runs and helping Australia secure a dominant victory. Travis Head also contributed significantly with a pivotal 123 runs, aiding Australia’s success on home ground.

On another note, opener Usman Khawaja suffered back spasms during the Perth Test, which stopped him from opening in the second innings. Khawaja has since returned home for medical evaluations. McDonald stated that Khawaja’s participation in the second Test is uncertain, even if he recovers, due to the need for further medical updates.

In Khawaja’s absence, Travis Head stepped up to open the batting in the second innings, scoring a match-winning century. McDonald hinted that this could be an option for future matches, outlining that teams sometimes adjust their batting order as conditions change, akin to strategies in one-day cricket. He confirmed that they are considering Head’s potential role as an opener, which Head has also expressed interest in.

With the next match being a pink-ball Test at the Gabba, discussions about team compositions are underway. Typically, pink-ball matches favor fast bowlers, particularly during evening conditions. Yet, McDonald reiterated that Nathan Lyon, Australia’s seasoned spinner, will not be easily replaced. He explained that the middle session in pink-ball scenarios often presents conditions suitable for spin, and Lyon remains integral to the team’s bowling strategy.

McDonald is optimistic regarding Australia’s prospects, believing that Cummins, Hazlewood, and Khawaja stand a good chance of returning soon. With standout performances from players like Starc and Head, Australia aims to maintain their momentum throughout the Ashes series.