Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins has declared himself fit for selection in the pivotal third Ashes Test against England, scheduled to commence in Adelaide on December 16th. The premier fast bowler has been sidelined for the initial two matches of the series while recuperating from a back injury.
Despite Australia’s commanding performances in both Perth and the ongoing day-night fixture in Brisbane, Cummins’ absence has been notable. The 32-year-old pace spearhead revealed that team selectors had contemplated a premature return for the second Test but ultimately deemed it an unnecessary gamble. ‘It felt a bit too acute and didn’t really feel fair on the other bowlers,’ Cummins explained during a broadcast interview with Fox Sports. ‘We thought it didn’t feel like the right Test match to take that risk, so kick it down the road for a week.’
Cummins reported exceptionally positive physical condition following intensive rehabilitation. ‘I’ll have one more bowl tomorrow in the nets and then we’ll go to Adelaide and have a bowl there,’ he stated. ‘Barring any hiccups, I’ll be good to go. The body feels great.’
The return of Australia’s captain significantly bolsters their bowling attack, which has also been missing fellow quick Josh Hazlewood. Cummins brings formidable credentials to Adelaide Oval, where he maintains a spectacular career bowling average of 21.19 across 71 Tests, with 309 total wickets. His leadership presence will relieve stand-in captain Steve Smith, who has guided the team during Cummins’ recovery period.