Brisbane, Dec 6: Australia captain Pat Cummins says he is on track for a full return in the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, expressing confidence that his back injury rehabilitation has progressed smoothly after ruling him out of the opening two matches of the series.
The 32-year-old fast bowler, who missed Australia’s commanding win in Perth and the ongoing day-night Test in Brisbane, confirmed that he is just a final training session away from regaining match readiness. Cummins, speaking to host broadcaster Fox Sports during Australia’s practice on Friday, said he expects no setbacks in the coming days.
“I’ll have one more bowl tomorrow in the nets and then we’ll go to Adelaide and have a bowl there,” Cummins said. “Barring any hiccups, I’ll be good to go. The body feels great.”
Cummins had been given a slim chance of featuring in Brisbane, but the team management opted for caution, wary of the long season ahead and the intensity of Ashes cricket. He admitted the decision to sit out was difficult but necessary.
“It felt a bit too acute and didn’t really feel fair on the other bowlers,” he said. “We thought it didn’t feel like the right Test match to take that risk, so we kicked it down the road for a week.”
In his absence, Steve Smith has led the side, while Mitchell Starc has delivered a fiery spell reminiscent of his finest Ashes moments, continuing to trouble England’s top order. Australia are also managing without fellow quick Josh Hazlewood, who is nursing a separate injury.
Cummins’ return will be a major boost for the hosts. The pacer boasts 309 wickets in 71 Tests, and his record in Adelaide — where he averages 21.19 with the pink ball — makes him a central figure in Australia’s attack under the lights.
With the Ashes delicately poised and both teams eyeing momentum heading into the festive period, Cummins’ comeback could not be better timed. The third Test begins on 16 December at the Adelaide Oval. (Agencies)
