Australia’s cricket fans can breathe a sigh of relief as their captain, Pat Cummins, provides positive indications of his fitness ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Cummins, who sustained a wrist fracture during the final Ashes Test against England at The Oval last month, is confident that his recovery is progressing well. This optimism puts him on track for a timely return before the six-week World Cup extravaganza in India.
Initially projected to be sidelined for up to six weeks, Cummins is quelling concerns of his availability for Australia’s first World Cup match against hosts India on October 8. The star fast bowler is aiming to join his teammates during the five-match series against South Africa next month and anticipates returning to the field during the three-game series against India at the end of September.
Cummins expressed his plans, stating, “I’ll head over to South Africa at the back-end of that leg. But we’re probably looking more at those one-dayers (against India) ahead of the World Cup. It shouldn’t be too bad. Another few weeks and it (his wrist) will be right.”
Australia is the first team to unveil their squad for the World Cup, releasing a preliminary 18-player list earlier this month. Cummins has been named the captain of the side, assuming his wrist recuperates in time.
However, the leadership scenario for the South Africa series remains uncertain. Chief selector George Bailey hinted at the possibility of rotating the captaincy during the five matches in Cummins’ absence. Steve Smith, Josh Hazlewood, Alex Carey, and Mitchell Marsh are potential candidates, with Marsh recently appointed as skipper for the T20I segment of the South Africa tour.
Cummins extended his support to Marsh’s leadership, praising the 31-year-old’s qualities. He commented, “Off the field, he’s just a great people-person. His energy’s infectious, he’s great to hang around with, always good fun.”
With Cummins’ recovery progress offering hope, the anticipation builds as Australia readies itself for the World Cup challenge. The preliminary squad, boasting a mix of experienced and promising players, underscores the team’s determination to clinch their sixth World Cup title.
Australia’s Preliminary World Cup Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa.
