Australian skipper Pat Cummins is maintaining a positive outlook as he recovers from a lower back problem, according to his fast-bowling teammate Mitchell Starc. Despite the likelihood of missing the opening Test of the Ashes series this summer, Cummins is expected to regain his peak form swiftly once cleared to resume bowling.
Starc, who recently signed with the Sydney Sixers for the Big Bash League after more than a decade, shared insights into Cummins’ recovery. The Australian captain has been participating in training sessions in Sydney, focusing on maintaining his core fitness. Although restricted from rotational activities due to his back issue, Cummins is reportedly working on strengthening his legs to prevent further flare-ups.
“He’s pretty level. He’s been floating around a little bit. Pat is still in his program and has obviously got a few sets of eyes on him in his return,” Starc said. “He’s in good spirits. He’s ultra-positive as always. There’s still some weeks to go before we get to Perth for the Test prep. We’ll see where that lands. Hopefully, we’ll see a lot of him through the summer and we’ll see what we can do.”
Australia’s Bowling Depth and Replacement Options
With Cummins’ participation in the Ashes opener uncertain, attention turns to Australia’s bowling depth. Jhye Richardson, recovering from a shoulder surgery, is hopeful of being fit for the latter part of the series. Meanwhile, Scott Boland is expected to step up in Cummins’ absence. Boland has proven his capability in past performances, making him a reliable option for the team.
Richardson expressed confidence in Boland’s ability to fill the void. “I think if Scotty is the one to come in straight away, I think he’s proven. When he does get his opportunity, he grabs it with both hands,” Richardson said. “So there’s no doubt that I think this Australian setup, who it has or who it doesn’t have, is going to be competitive no matter what.”
Starc emphasized the squad mentality within the Australian team, highlighting that the bowling attack functions as a cohesive unit rather than relying solely on individual star power. “Certainly in recent years, it’s always been a squad mentality or a group mentality in terms of particular bowlers and knowing how much hard work it is,” he noted.
Leadership and Strategic Preparations
The potential absence of Cummins as captain raises questions about leadership. Australian star Glenn Maxwell believes Steve Smith is the natural choice to step in, having led the team effectively during Cummins’ previous absences. Smith’s leadership will be crucial as Australia navigates the challenges of the Ashes series.
Meanwhile, the Australian selectors have identified potential reserves such as Brendon Doggett, Michael Neser, and Sean Abbott, should further injuries impact the squad. Starc highlighted the depth of talent available, including the promising return of Jhye Richardson.
“I certainly think there’s enough experience around Australian cricket. There’s always guys at different levels, different age groups, guys that have been in and around the squad a fair bit,” Starc said.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Injuries remain a persistent challenge for fast bowlers, with Richardson acknowledging the inevitability of setbacks in their careers. “I think you have to expect it at some stage. It happens to a lot of fast bowlers. It’s very rare that fast bowlers go through their career without having some sort of setback,” he said.
Australia’s upcoming schedule is packed, with a white-ball series against India preceding the Ashes and the T20 World Cup on the horizon. Spencer Johnson, another promising talent, is eager to recover from stress fractures in his back to seize international opportunities.
As the Ashes approach, the Australian team is focused on strategic preparations and ensuring their squad is ready for the challenges ahead. The depth and resilience of the team will be tested, but the players remain optimistic about their prospects.
“We’ve obviously got different age groups across the depth. Obviously, we’ve got a fairly talented group of 19, 20-year-old bowlers and then a lot of depth from there up to us that have played a lot of domestic cricket. I think we’ve got a good group of guys that you’ve called upon who will take that opportunity with two hands,” Starc concluded.
With the Ashes series set to begin on November 21 in Perth, all eyes will be on how Australia manages its resources and adapts to the challenges posed by injuries and intense competition.
