Australia's cricket team faces a nervous wait over the fitness of captain Pat Cummins ahead of the crucial second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane. Cummins missed his side's emphatic two-day victory in the first Test at Perth Stadium due to a back problem, with Steve Smith stepping in to lead the team.
Late Fitness Decision for Australian Captain
Coach Andrew McDonald has revealed that a final call on Cummins' participation will be made at the last minute. The fast bowler has been bowling at good pace in the nets in recent days and is reportedly pushing hard for selection for next Thursday's day-night Test. McDonald acknowledged that winning the first match had reduced the pressure to rush Cummins back prematurely.
"Would there have been extra sort of pressures in terms of going one-nil down? Potentially," McDonald told reporters in Perth. He added that the medical team would continue to monitor Cummins closely before making a final decision: "Once we see him there in training again, we'll be able to then join the dots as to what that potentially looks like."
Hazlewood's Series Prospects Clarified
Meanwhile, McDonald addressed concerns about fellow seamer Josh Hazlewood, who is currently sidelined with a hamstring strain. The coach firmly dismissed suggestions that Hazlewood might miss the entire five-Test series, though he confirmed the bowler remains unavailable for the immediate future.
"I don't think he's out for the whole series," McDonald stated. "He's working through the first week of his rehab. He'll be available at some point in the series." This news provides some comfort for Australian selectors as they manage their bowling resources through a demanding schedule.
Langer Criticises Two-Day Test Impact
Former Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed serious concerns about the broader implications of the first Test concluding within just two days. While Cricket Australia faces significant financial losses from ticket refunds and lost sales, Langer highlighted the disappointment for young fans and travelling supporters.
"What about the kid who misses the opportunity to watch their first day of Test cricket?" Langer wrote in the West Australian. "I have heard three stories of heartbroken kids robbed of the dream of seeing their heroes live." He emphasised that the health of cricket depends on captivating new generations of fans.
Langer also sympathised with England supporters who had travelled to Perth for the match, noting: "Friends of mine are in that category. We have been talking about day three of the Perth Test for six months. They are shattered." His comments underscore the balancing act between competitive cricket and the spectator experience that defines the Ashes tradition.
