Alex Carey shares a crucial fitness update on Pat Cummins as the Australia captain pushes for a return ahead of the Ashes. Here’s what the wicketkeeper had to say about Cummins’ recovery and readiness. (Image Credit: Sky Sports)
Australia captain Pat Cummins has been recovering from a back stress injury that ruled him out of the first Ashes Test in Perth. He hasn’t bowled for several months but has made encouraging progress, with reports suggesting he is feeling much stronger and closer to a return.
Pat Cummins has resumed training and is now bowling with a three-quarter run-up, suggesting he's working his way back into full rhythm. He said he is on track for a potential return during the second Ashes Test in Brisbane. Cummins admitted that while things are improving, some uncertainty remains until he completes a full test-like session.
Wicket-keeper Alex Carey was the first to offer some optimism. He said that, recently, Cummins had been through a full-intensity net session. According to him, Cummins seemed ready and strong during the workout. However, he indicated that the next step for him will be game fitness-maintaining that level and managing his body over long spells.
Yes, that is now a realistic possibility. Cummins has publicly said that he is keeping the second Test at the Gabba as a “live option.” He thinks his body is responding well, and if things keep going according to plan in the nets, he could make a comeback. However, he has also acknowledged that playing in every remaining game of the series might be tough owing to workload issues.
It would be a big boost if Cummins were to return. Being Australia's captain and strike bowler, his presence strengthens the leadership and bowling firepower. The all-important second Test may turn in Australia's favor with him back, especially in a high-stakes series like the Ashes. His return will also take the heat off other bowlers, enabling them to share the work load more equitably.
