Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Pat Cummins Targets Gabba Return After Bowling Step-Up as Steve Smith Leads Perth Opener

The captain has restarted multi-over spells off a reduced run-up, traveling to Perth to build workloads toward a possible second-Test comeback.

Overview

  • Cummins confirmed he is eyeing the day-night second Test at the Gabba on December 4 after completing seven to eight overs in the nets at three-quarter pace without setbacks.
  • Ruled out of the Perth opener, he will join the squad there to train and assess his readiness, with no warm-up match planned before a potential return.
  • Steve Smith will captain the first Test, with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland set to spearhead the pace attack and Nathan Lyon as the spinner.
  • Australia named a 15-man Perth squad that drops opener Sam Konstas and includes uncapped Jake Weatherald, with Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett added as fast-bowling cover.
  • Cummins cautioned he may need rest later in the series due to tight turnarounds, as selection debate continues following public criticism from Steve Waugh and a response from chair George Bailey.